Bosnia-Herzegovina Receives Return on US Investment of $372 Million for Infrastructure Repair
Infrastructure repair is the most visible of all USAID’s programs in Bosnia-Herzegovina. Starting in 1995, the program targeted structures that would help restart and assist citizens to return to normal living.
Some of the most significant efforts included repairs of Kakanj power plant and the Banja Luka District heating system; repair of the Brcko rail, Brod, Dubica and Novi Grad border bridges between Croatia and BiH which enabled businesses to resume exporting their goods; and the construction of a 5,000 cubic meter reservoir that ended water rationing for most Tuzla residents.
All together, USAID power projects directly restored power to 200,000 households, and benefited an additional million people by providing a more stable power supply.
USAID repaired schools for 30,000 students, provided water and improved sanitation for 300,000 households, rehabilitated health centers serving 500,000 citizens and repaired roads and bridges used by 40,000 travelers per day.
In 1998, most of the major infrastructure repairs had been made and USAID shifted its focus to supporting the return of minority refugees and displaced persons to their homes. The program relied on direction provided by local officials and returnee groups to determine what kinds of projects were most needed. Eventually, it became clear that, once home, returnees needed a way to earn a living. Therefore, the program expanded to include small grants, loans and technical assistance.
 |
 |
| Nova Sarajevo school before (left) and after (right) post-war reconstruction |
Back to Top ^
|
