July 2008

TRADING HUB.   There’s almost constant flow of goods and passengers at this boat landing in Barangay Kampurnah, Isabela City, Basilan, one of 65 constructed across the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (ARMM) and conflict-affected areas in Mindanao by USAID’s Growth with Equity in Mindanao (GEM) Program. The Kampurnah facility has become a primary landing point for agricultural and fish products from neighboring coastal communities. Through its Barangay Infrastructure Program, GEM has, in partnership with local governments, cooperatives and producers associations, completed more than 830 small water systems, warehouses, solar dryers, boat landings, culverts, foot bridges community centers and road upgrades. GEM is implemented under the oversight of the Mindanao Economic Development Council. (GEM)