The infrastructure projects are administered by the local authorities, but a committee appointed by the residents takes part in the selection of projects and organises the participation of the residents who make their own contributions in the form of work and cash. This participation in the decisionmaking process is an important factor which can explain the success of the project. The residents receive small loans to improve their own shades or houses, for example a few hundred dollars for a new roof. The money is repaid and will be lent to a new borrower. Special loans to micro-enterprises For poor people earning an income is, of course, most important, but a salaried job is, for most, an unattainable dream.
People have to find other ways of earning a living.
These can be the selfemployed, often women, who for example sell soft drinks or sew clothes. They repay their loans with interest and the money is put into a revolving fund and continues to benefit the poor. Improving the urban environment Introducing environmental considerations into the planning process is the goal of a new major programme supported by Sida in South Africa. In Gaza and the West Bank Sida is working with questions relating to water supply, sewage disposal, repair of streets and employment generation. One project which has received much attention is the rebuilding of streets, a market place and a square in the old town of Bethlehem.