2002 Press Releases 

U.S. Embassy, USAID Announce New Community Action Investment Program (CAIP)

July 12, 2002

The U.S. Embassy in Turkmenistan and the Regional Mission of the U.S. Agency for International Development in Central Asia (USAID/CAR) announced a new, three-year Community Action Investment Program (CAIP) in Central Asia. The goals of CAIP are to strengthen participation in local planning and decision-making, and to increase employment opportunities, in particular for women and youth.

Mercy Corps International, a U.S.-based international organization, will implement CAIP in Turkmenistan, focusing on communities in Lebap province. Mercy Corps will implement programs such as constructing, refurbishing and equipping schools and recreation facilities, youth and community centers, health clinics, and small-scale water supply and sanitation systems. Particular attention will be given to youth and women - both as participants in and beneficiaries of these activities. In addition, CAIP will establish and strengthen small businesses in these communities in order to generate new employment opportunities.

At the end of the three-year program, several thousand new jobs should been created. New or renovated infrastructure - such as schools, health clinics, domestic/potable community water systems, and social service/community centers - should be in place and maintained by the local communities.

USAID /CAR, with the leadership of the U.S. Ambassador, is responsible for U.S. development assistance in Turkmenistan. In support of U.S. foreign policy, USAID's goal is to expand opportunities for Turkmenistan's citizens to participate fully in improving their governance, their livelihoods and their quality of life.