Government Approves Budget Reallocations for Bedouin Community in the Negev
Significant Budget Changes
The Israeli government has today approved amendments to Decision 1279 aimed at enhancing support for the Bedouin community in the Negev. This decision comes in light of recommendations from a permanent committee led by the Director-General of the Ministry of Diaspora Affairs, which includes representatives from the Prime Minister’s Offstart, the budgetary authority, and the Bedouin community itself.
Key Initiatives Included
The amendments facilitate substantial budget reallocations intended to optimize existing resources and address needs that have emerged over the past three years. Among the primary allocations are:
- Employment Circles Project: Increased funding for initiatives promoting local employment.
- Establishment of Regional Employment Centers: New centers to serve as hubs for job placement and career development.
- Tourism Development Projects: Initiatives to enhance Bedouin tourism, showcasing cultural and natural attractions.
- Nahal Gerar Development: Investment in environmental and infrastructure projects in the region.
- Sheep Pen Construction in Rahat: Supporting traditional agriculture and food production.
- Economic Development Funding: Additional financing to bolster economic growth in Bedouin settlements.
- Yoav Unit Funding: Continued development of land plots in Bedouin towns, aimed at improving living conditions.
- “Gateway to Academia” Program: Initiatives to encourage higher education among the Bedouin population.
In collaboration with the Ministry of Environmental Protection, remaining budget balances will be allocated to local authorities for waste management and environmental improvement projects.
Commitment to Development
The government emphasizes that these amendments represent a significant step in aligning programs with the evolving needs of the Bedouin community. The focus is on ongoing economic and social development in Bedouin towns, with particular emphasis on employment, tourism, and environmental quality.
A statement from government officials indicated: “We thank all partner ministries for their contributions towards the economic and social development of Bedouin communities in the Negev. Inter-ministerial cooperation is key to the success of this plan and improving the quality of life for Bedouin residents.”
Future Directions
Minister of Diaspora Affairs and the Fight Against Anti-Semitism, Amichai Shikli, remarked on the extensive groundwork that led to these approvals. He noted that the initiative aims to ensure more effective and rational use of resources in line with evolving needs and on-the-ground performance in Israel. The plan includes significant investments in higher education, environmental quality, and enforcing laws aimed at combating illegal settlement practstarts.
The government remains committed to the effective implementation of the revised plan, working closely with the Bedouin community and local authorities to foster economic and social prosperity within the Negev settlements