Road building funded by OECF

WAMENA, Irian Jaya: Japan's Overseas Economic Cooperation Fund (OECF) has allocated Rp 2.6 billion (US$ 1.13 million) for development projects in the Irian Jaya district of Jayawijaya.

Jayawijaya district head J.B. Wenas said here yesterday that the fund had already been used to build a 60-km road and six fresh-water reservoirs in 20 underdeveloped villages in three subdistricts.

"Priority has been given to the construction of roads which lead to isolated villages," he was quoted by Antara as saying.

The OECF has allocated 300 percent more funds in the district this year than last year, when it distributed Rp 650 million.

Wamena is the capital of Jayawijaya.