This decision follows a series of initiatives approved by KKL -JNF in recent months, including a 30 million NIS allocation for the rehabilitation of Kibbutz Manara.
Of the approved budget, 145 million NIS will be allocated to communities along the northern border. The largest portion of the funding, amounting to 115 million NIS, will support infrastructure rehabilitation and development projects in 11 communities along the Lebanese border: Misgav Am, Malkia, Margaliot, Kfar Yuval, Dovev, Avivim, Shtula, Zar’it, Hanita, Adamit, and Arab al-Aramshe.
An additional 20 million NIS will be allocated for the development and upgrade of security roads, in coordination with Israel’s Ministry of Defense. The roads are intended to assure safe access between communities in the region and along key routes, due to the security and emergency situation in northern Israel. An additional 10 million NIS will be allocated for renovations of the amphitheater at the Ghetto Fighters' House Museum, with the project expected to become a significant regional center for culture and leisure.
Alongside the budget allocated for the northern border communities, KKL-JNF also approved a 128.5 million NIS assistance program for the Golan area. Under the plan, 70 million NIS will be invested in projects led by the Golan Regional Council, including agricultural training programs, land development for new rural residential communities, and the construction of public buildings.
In Katzrin, known as the Golan region's "capital city", 45 million NIS will be invested in a variety of projects, including the establishment of a KKL-JNF House of Excellence, environmental development projects, and the renovation of public parks. In addition, 13.5 million NIS will be allocated for the purchase of residential housing units in Katzrin, which will include accommodation for volunteer groups and pre-military academy (Mechina) graduates.
“Our commitment at KKL-JNF to the development of the North is taking on another practical expression today as part of a series of measures that reflect a clear strategy,” said Eyal Ostrinsky, Chairman of KKL-JNF. “The North has long ceased to be a local story and has become a national priority of the highest importance, and we at KKL-JNF are taking responsibility and standing alongside the authorities and communities there. Today’s decisions will serve as a foundation for growth and development, for community and Zionist fulfillment, and we are proud to continue standing by the borderline communities and the communities of the Golan during this time of need, while placing them at forefront of KKL-JNF’s priorities.”