PRT Fuel Operator, CPL Chris Watty.
16 March 2008
The New Zealand Provincial Reconstruction Team (NZPRT) assisted with a humanitarian aid operation to Day Kundi province last week.
Day Kundi is a poor province southwest of Bamyan, with no Provincial Reconstruction Team or International Security Assistance Forcce (ISAF) presence. It is part of the Central Highlands and snow falls have isolated many parts of the province this winter.
In order to get the aid to the region, the Afghan National Army Corps (ANAAC) provided two Mi-17 helicopters.
Sixteen tonnes of aid - including wheat, cooking oil, blankets, tarpaulins, winter clothes, family kits, medical supplies and a doctor were moved over four days.
The NZ PRT assisted with rations and quarters and also supplied a refuelling team.
Chief of Staff, LT COL Don Jones, said that the operation showed a rare glimpse of many different organisations working together:
“Despite some problems with coordination and leadership, goodwill from many parties has enabled the operation to work, boosting confidence for the future.” he said.
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