Federal Affairs Minister, Siraj Fegessa said the ministry has provided support to 35 selected woredas in Afar, Somali, Benishangul Gumuz and Gambella regional states during the reported period.

The minister was speaking here on Wednesday while presenting nine months performance report to Legal and Administration Affairs Standing Committee of the House of Peoples' Representatives.

The ministry has given the support through member offices of the federal board and neighboring regional states.

He said the ministry has been conducting a study aimed at strengthening activities in natural resource, agriculture, water resource development, and education sectors, among others.

Relevant training has been offered to civil servants in the regions and series of discussions were also held to fill gaps identified in execution capacity, he added.

The Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development provided veterinary service, launched agricultural extension programs, and familiarized farmers with improved agricultural tools, Siraj said.

The Ministry of Water Resources has also been exerting efforts to increase safe water service coverage in the states.

The ministry of education on its part has been facilitating conditions to prevent school drop outs in the states.

With regard to health, Siraj said, though several health stations were built in the states, there is shortage of health professionals. Relevant training is being offered to natives of respective states with a view to addressing the shortage, he added.

R...2:50-3:40 pm

E--4:02pm

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