Vietnam will spend over VND4.35 trillion ($210 million) on upgrading irrigation systems in the Mekong Delta, the largest growing areas of rice, fisheries and fruits in the country, said the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development. Of the amount, $169 million will be funded by the World Bank (WB) and the remaining $50 million will be contributed by the Vietnamese government, the ministry said, adding the project will be carried out in provinces of Hau Giang, Kien Giang, Can Tho, Bac Lieu, Ca Mau, Soc Trang, An Giang and Can Tho. The project will support the localities in maintain and upgrading local irrigation systems to enhance agricultural production. In addition, it will help local farmers effectively use fertilizers and spray pesticides, and provide clean water for 60,000 households and upgrade hygienic facilities for 10,000 households. (Nong Nghiep Viet Nam – Vietnam Agriculture June 12 p6)
