U.S. gives seeds to Irian Jaya

WAMENA, Irian Jaya: The United States has donated 76,203 tons of crop seeds to the drought-hit regency of Jayawijaya in Irian Jaya.

Antara reported Thursday that the donation -- which includes the hybrid corn, red bean, potato, and carrot seed -- was handed over here to Regent J.B. Wenas by the director of the United States Agency for International Development, Vivikka Molldrem.

Wenas said the local agriculture office and the church would help coordinate the planting of the seeds during this year's planting season.

The drought last year in the regency killed at least 430 villagers. (aan)