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USAID Awards Contracts for Economic Growth in Iraq


WASHINGTON, DC 20523
PRESS OFFICE
http://www.usaid.gov/
Press: (202) 712-4320
Public Information: (202) 712-4810

2004-094

October 13, 2004

Contact: USAID Press Office

WASHINGTON, DC - The U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) announced contract awards to The Louis Berger Group, Inc. to assist the Government of Iraq in stimulating the economy through private sector growth, employment generating activities and vocational and technical training programs.

Under the $120 million award to assist in developing the private sector, the U.S. based firm will provide assistance in restructuring and privatization of state owned enterprises, developing capital markets, trade policy and business management skills. The firm will also implement activities that will promote the development of micro, small and medium businesses. Training and expertise will also be provided to credit-worthy private enterprises to achieve sustainable and profitable lending through Iraqi banks and to help build a sustainable microfinance industry.

A separate $88 million award to The Louis Berger Group, Inc. for vocational education is intended to encourage workforce development with an emphasis on vocational training, technical training, and employment services. The firm will also provide experienced personnel, equipment, and funding to assist the Iraq Ministry of Labor and Social Affairs (MOLSA) to run existing vocational and employment centers. The contract also provides for MOLSA training that will lead to MOLSA independently managing and sustaining the centers.

The three-year contracts were competitively bid and are part of the U.S. government's reconstruction assistance to the Iraqi people aimed at improving stability, ensuring the delivery of essential services, and facilitating economic recovery. For more information on USAID's humanitarian relief and reconstruction efforts in Iraq please visit www.usaid.gov/iraq.


The U.S. Agency for International Development has provided economic and humanitarian assistance worldwide for more than 40 years.

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