Sierra Leone Humanitarian Situation Report 1 - 17 May 1999

1. POLITICAL DEVELOPMENTS
The period under review saw continuing debate on the political future of Sierra Leone, as the RUF delegation in Lome ended in-house consultations and preparations began for direct talks with the Government. Foday Sankoh's latest announcement that the RUF would be ready to begin dialogue with the Government without pre-conditions was viewed as a welcome initiative. Peace negotiations are expected to begin before the end of the month, preceded by the ministerial and head of state meetings on the 24th and 25th of May, under the auspices of "Committee of Seven". The Committee of Seven will specifically consider the positions of both parties and make recommendations for a framework for the talks.1

The Cease-fire Debate

Calls for a cease-fire to support the peace process have been made amongst continuing doubts about the actions of both parties to the conflict. RUF forces continue to be accused of severe human rights abuses, while the Government and ECOMOG have been criticized by the RUF for continuing their offensive. However, Sierra Leone civil society organizations and newspapers have questioned the wisdom of a cease-fire agreement at a time when the rebels control large sections of the country including resource-rich areas. The Government, on its part, said it would only consider a cease-fire agreement with the RUF if and when the UN would deploy up to 1,000 military observers to monitor the process, a commitment the UN Security Council said it would not be prepared to make as a pre-condition to a cease-fire agreement.

UN Security Council urges parties to talk

In a Presidential Statement on Sierra Leone released on 8 May, the UN Security Council reiterated the importance of an overall political settlement and national reconciliation as the only means to achieve a peaceful resolution to the conflict in Sierra Leone. In this context, it welcomed the recent holding of internal talks by the rebel delegation in Lome, and urged the GoSL and rebel representatives to start direct talks without further delay and without preconditions. It called upon the rebels to cease atrocities committed against civilians immediately, and for both sides to refrain from any hostile or aggressive act or troop movement which could undermine the peace process. The Council also called on the rebel leadership to release all hostages and abductees without delay, and for both parties to commit to a cessation of hostilities for the duration of the Lome talks.

UN increases support for humanitarian interventions

Recognising the serious humanitarian situation in the country, compounded by difficulties in accessing populations in need, the UN has provided a helicopter to the Government to support its humanitarian operations. The helicopter, which is financed by the Trust Fund for Sierra Leone, comes with operational and maintenance support, including two pilots and two engineers.

The UN Special Representative of the Secretary General (SRSG) addressed the National Consultative Forum constituted by Government Line Ministries, UN humanitarian agencies and NGOs on the political process and its impact on the humanitarian situation. Noting that humanitarian crises arise when political needs are not adequately addressed, the Ambassador told the forum at its regular coordination meeting on 10 May that the UN's main concern was to ensure that the dialogue process was given a fair chance to succeed. He said he had recommended military restraint to all parties for the duration of the talks so as to allow free movement of civilians and access for humanitarian intervention. He also highlighted the role that the UN has played in mobilising resources for the current emergency.

The Challenge of Lome

While a cross-section of Sierra Leoneans and sympathizers continue to hunger for a peaceful resolution to the conflict, no group is more anxious for a successful outcome of Lome than the direct victims of this brutal conflict. They are the internally displaced who must face the current rainy season with little or no roofs over their heads; the refugees across the Guinean border whose individual and collective security continue to be threatened by the spill-over effects of the conflict; the farmers and bread winners humiliated by the fact that they can no longer provide for their dependants; and the children who have maimed and been maimed and whose education has been consistently interrupted for almost a decade. As leaders of the parties to the conflict meet in Lome, their sincerity will be tested on their ability to hear the silent voices of these victims. There will be no greater failure than an outcome that does not provide a stable environment within which the devastated and incapacitated Sierra Leoneans could begin to heal and to mend their broken limbs and fences.

2. Security

The last two weeks have seen a changing security situation in the country. While ECOMOG and CDF forces have made some advances from the Western Area, new RUF force movements have caused concern in the last week. The onset of the next round of Lomé talks may have a considerable impact on security.

Freetown, The Western Area and The Northern Province

ECOMOG and CDF forces continued their push to open the main road from Freetown to Guinea. By the 5th of May, it was possible for humanitarian staff to travel to Masiaka and Rogberi junction. ECOMOG also stated at the time that it was possible to continue to Port Loko, and then to Kambia. A UN Security mission successfully traveled to Rogberi junction on Friday 7th May.

The recent fighting between Songo, Masiaka and Port Loko caused extensive damage to property and reprisal attacks against the local population. Masiaka, the key town which controls Sierra Leone's main highways, had over 90% of its buildings damaged or destroyed. Additionally, trenches had been dug in the road in several locations by captives of the RUF to impede the ECOMOG advance. These have since been temporarily repaired by ECOMOG / CDF. The strategic Magbile bridge, which allows onward travel to Rogberi junction, was taken intact. In addition to property damage, the retreating rebel forces have been accused by civilians of committing numerous human rights abuses (see Human Rights section, below). New arrivals of war-wounded continue to be registered at the time of writing, which indicates that insecurity is still considerable between Songo and Mile 38.

The Malian ECOMOG contingent at Port Loko was attacked by the RUF on Friday 7th May. Seven soldiers were killed and eleven injured. Three vehicles were also destroyed. A second RUF attack on Port Loko was broken up by ECOMOG forces, supported by the helicopter gunship. The Malian troops have since withdrawn from Port Loko to Lungi, and have been replaced by Nigerian and Guinean troops. Other RUF attacks were reported in five villages south of Port Loko.

RUF forces attacked the area around Songo (45 km from Freetown) on Thursday 13th May. ECOMOG resisted the attack at Songo Junction, where an ECOMOG battalion headquarters is located. ECOMOG claimed to have inflicted up to thirty casualties on the attackers before they withdrew. A similar attack took place at Mile 38 on Friday 14th May.

The attacks near Port Loko and Songo provoked a security build-up in both Freetown and Lungi, following speculation that both these areas were under threat. Large numbers of CDF were moved to Lungi from Freetown, while patrols were stepped up in Freetown itself. In the Northern Province, the only other remaining government strongholds are Bumbuna, Kabala and Masingbi.

The Eastern Province

RUF forces in the Eastern Province have been pressuring ECOMOG forces in the area. A large build up around Segbwema has been reported, with two main groups on either side of the Segbwema - Bo road. It is not clear what the objectives of these groups are.

The Southern Province

Attempts to open road access to Bo continue. The main Freetown-Bo highway is still considered to be insecure between Masiaka and Mile 91. The alternative Songo-Moyamba-Bo route is still not open to regular traffic, although occasional commercial shipments have successfully used the route. Government states that it is giving the opening of the roads its highest priority.

3. HUMAN RIGHTS

Recent missions have established a pattern of human rights abuses following recent fighting, especially between Songo, Masiaka and Port Loko. It has not been possible to assess the actual number of deaths, as the dead were buried swiftly. However, documented cases of killings in the last three weeks indicate a similar pattern, where people are gathered into one village from surrounding areas, and then a number of them are killed, tortured or abused. Women and children appear to be more vulnerable to these abuses, as they are less able to escape. Twelve people were reported killed in Madigba in the second week of May, including eight children. Another thirteen women and children were reported killed in the village of Mangarma, near Port Loko. Residents in areas around Masiaka claimed that scores of people had been abducted from Masiaka alone. At least equal numbers are missing, either presumed dead, abducted or still living in bush camps. Finally, the period between 26 April and 16 May saw 42 new war-related cases arrive at Connaught Hospital in Freetown, of whom 8 were amputees. Additionally, in three documented cases, children were found with severe axe wounds to the head.

The first substantive meeting of the ECOMOG Civil Military Relations Committee took place at the ECOMOG Headquarters on 11 May. The Committee was set up last month by the ECOMOG Force Commander, Major-General Felix Mujakperuo to investigate allegations of human rights abuses by ECOMOG personnel. At the meeting, members decided to extend their scope to cover violations by other pro-government armed groups such as the Civil Defence Forces and the Sierra Leone Army. The Committee also resolved to hold workshops and seminars to sensitize members of the public about their rights and explain procedures for filing complaints if aggrieved by the security forces. This latest initiative will play a significant role in restoring the public's confidence in the security forces. The UNOMSIL Human Rights Unit has chosen observer status in the committee in order to maintain independence and impartiality with regard to local judicial processes and procedures.

4. HUMANITARIAN HIGHLIGHTS

Emerging Humanitarian Concerns

Masiaka and surroundings
As ECOMOG continued its military advance beyond Waterloo town, inter-agency rapid assessment missions have been carried out in Songo, Mile 36, Mile 38, Masiaka and surrounding villages. Initial reports indicate that the occupation of the RUF caused considerable suffering amongst the civilian population, who were either forced to support the rebel forces, or to live in bush camps. Those currently in the main villages appear to have nutritional and medical problems which must be assessed in greater detail when security permits. At the time of visiting, Masiaka town was still empty. Concentrations of displaced were seen at Mile 36 and Mile 38, closer to ECOMOG positions. ECOMOG and villagers estimated that another 5,000 to 10,000 people were still subsisting in the bush. Recent insecurity continues to prevent large scale humanitarian work. In particular, humanitarian agencies fear that emergency resources may draw further attack.

Tasso Island
Humanitarian needs have developed on Tasso Island in the Western Area. The Epidemic Rapid Intervention Team made up of MOHS and WHO undertook an assessment mission this month to investigate reports of diarrhoea, dysentery and cholera on the Island. According to their report, the outbreaks were caused by a lack of good water supply, poor environmental sanitation and over-crowding by IDPs. The problem was further compounded by the lack of drugs in the area. About 5,000 displaced people are said to have joined the host population of 2,500 on this small Island. Deaths resulting from diarrhoea and dysentery amounted to 23 by end of April, a case fatality rate of 6.6 per cent. During the mission, the team treated 1,104 patients at the Community Health Post. Emergency response by health agencies and the MOHS will include: immediate support to the local community health services; health education campaign on cholera prevention and control; and a rapid nutritional assessment of the vulnerable IDPs. International Medical Corps (IMC) has agreed to lead emergency activities in the area, with support from UNICEF and other agencies. OXFAM and ACF have been requested to assist with WATSAN activities. The existing eight wells in the area are adequate to serve the entire population of 7,500 but will need rehabilitation.

Refugees in Guinea/Gbalamuya/Kambia/Pamelap
UN-HACU in Forecariah reports that the animosity against Sierra Leone refugees in Guinea after the rebel attack on Mola was gradually dying down. The UNHCR and local authorities appear to be effectively managing the situation through sensitization programmes for host and refugee populations. Security at the camp has also been reinforced. The Mola incident triggered some population movements from other camps, particularly Faramoia, some 30 km from Mola. Vehicular traffic from Forecariah to Pamelap increased in the last week as some of the refugees headed back to Sierra Leone via Dakhagbe border. Most of the refugees are believed to be moving in the direction of the Pamelap border area, while others are aiming to reach Lungi and Freetown. IDPs who sought refuge in villages close to the border following the attack on Kambia in February have also been reported to be moving further inland, away from the major routes. An increasing number of IDPs appear to be returning to settlements along Gbalamuya-Kambia route. Aid workers reported food scarcity and signs of moderate malnutrition among some of the displaced, especially children and the elderly. Security in the area of Kambia continues to be uncertain, as access to the area is restricted.

Makeni
Interviews with refugees indicated that a food crisis may be developing in Makeni. Signs of malnutrition among civilian populations in the area were also reported. Rebels continue to maintain their hold on the town and surrounding villages. Although reports of atrocities against civilians are rare, widespread abductions and training of captives are said to be common practice. The area remains out of the reach of humanitarian agencies.

Non-food Items

Rains and Roofs
Agencies have two objectives as the rains approach. The first is to provide assistance for reconstruction and rehabilitation of damaged or destroyed houses in areas that have recently become accessible and relatively safe for resettlement. The second is to provide temporary shelter for the displaced whose areas of origin remain unsafe. While priority is given to emergency shelter needs, the government and agencies continue to explore the options for resettlement where possible. According to the Ministry of Housing, up to 5,000 houses were destroyed in the Greater Freetown area.

Agencies have divided affected areas into zones to ensure adequate coverage. During the first week of May, CRS began distribution of food-for-work rations, bush sticks, nails and zinc sheets to assist 401 resettling households in Calaba Town. To date, CRS has distributed approximately 30 MTs of Title II food, 9,000 packets of nails and 800 bundles of zinc in the area. This initiative is the first of a series of emergency housing reconstruction activities aimed at rehabilitating the devastated eastern part of the peninsula, parts of which had up to 75 % of their structures burned down. CRS also plans to re-roof 110 low-cost housing units destroyed during the rebel incursion into Freetown in January. Construction contractors have been identified and work is expected to start during this month.

On 8 May, World Vision International (WVI) commenced distribution of building materials to families rebuilding 350 houses in eastern Freetown. As at 9 May, 112 family heads had received corrugated iron sheets, roofing, nails and bush sticks.

CARE is also providing construction materials to the war affected people in eastern Freetown.

Concern Worldwide (CW) has accelerated its work as the rains approach. At the time of writing, they reported completion of construction work at some of the IDP sites: Parade Grounds (160 rooms/10 kitchens/one Palava Hut); Mandella Playing Fields (72 rooms/5 kitchens/one Palava Hut); Approved School (40 rooms/20 kitchens); and Murray Town (32 rooms/10 kitchens). Construction work is ongoing at the Approved School and Murray Town locations where additional booths have been planned.

The specifications of all emergency temporary shelters are as per Ministry of Housing regulations. Bushsticks are used for skeletal structures. CW's plastic sheeting is used for partitions and walls while USAID contribution is used for roofing. With an estimated eight persons per room, Concern Worldwide reported temporary shelter provision to 4,928 persons by the time of this review.

The shelter situation at the Waterloo camp is also being addressed by CW. The camp, which is managed by the Adventist Development and Relief Agency (ADRA), formerly accommodated about 14,000 displaced people including 1,500 Liberian refugees and 984 amputees and caretakers. The populations vacated the camp during the December attack. Since ECOMOG secured the area, new influxes from the nearby towns of Newton, Songo, Masiaka and Port Loko, have joined those who returned to the camp. After an assessment of the camp on 7 May, CW reported that 371 of the 1,568 original booths had been damaged and more than 1,000 were without appropriate roofing. They have begun rehabilitation of the booths with CARE providing the plastic sheeting. With the construction of an additional 400 booths, up to 15,000 people can be accommodated at the camp.

With relative security around Waterloo, ADRA reports that it has fully resumed normal relief operations in the camp, including general camp management, running the camp clinic, organizing feeding programmes for malnourished children, and distribution of VGF rations provided by WFP. They will also assist CW in the rehabilitation and construction of shelters at the camp. A WFP-led exercise has registered and verified close to 9,000 displaced residents at the camp. Resettlement and relocation of the caseload at the Post Office Community Centre and surrounding villages will begin after a registration and verification exercise which is being coordinated by CRS, WFP and the Evangelical Fellowship of Sierra Leone (EFSL).

Concerned that the number of IDPs in the Greater Freetown area currently exceed shelters available, the NCRRR has appealed to agencies with the capacities and resources to step in and assist ongoing efforts. Two new sites have been identified in Calaba Town. CRS and EFSL have indicated their interest in providing assistance for the new sites. Cause Canada has resources for camp construction in Bo, Freetown and possibly Kenema.

Non-food items continue to be distributed at the various IDP sites. CARE has 5,000 sets of items available after a recent distribution at the camps. The Christian Children's Fund which operates in central Freetown has also provided non-food items including mats, clothing, blankets and toiletries to some 10,000 beneficiaries at various displaced centres, hospitals and clinics.

Health Interventions

Bonthe District
An inter-agency assessment mission to Bonthe on 8 May determined that the hospital and clinics were in reasonable condition and that the EPI support given to health staff there had paid off. The mission, which included UNICEF, HACU and WVI, said the hospital was poorly equipped. UNICEF provided two hospital kits, and will provide further equipment and logistical support for the District Medical Officer and his team. They will also assist in revitalizing two additional PHUs on the Island. The Ministry of Health and Sanitation (MOHS) will provide a generator for the cold chain and seek to address the acute staffing problem there. There are only two to three nurses on the Island.

On 7 May, WVI sent a consignment of medical supplies to support its health programmes in Bonthe District. WVI is expanding its health programme to Imperi and Jong chiefdoms in the second phase of the project which began this month. Two PHUs will be supported in Imperi, and three MCH posts in Jong, Kpandakemo and Nogoba Bullom chiefdoms. Measles immunization campaigns are ongoing in the various chiefdoms, in addition to basic health activities in the six clinics already supported.

According to UNICEF, two significant events in the health sector during this period included the first EPI coordination meeting this year. The meeting, which had a strong NGO and Government representation, identified key issues requiring urgent intervention, including the issue of fees being charged for immunization despite a health policy that all EPI services should be free of charge, and the issue of safety of injections. On the first issue, agencies agreed to speak to staff and to support social mobilization and sensitization programmes which would inform communities of their right to free immunization services. With regard to the second issue, the meeting agreed that the current policy of using sterilizable equipment was unsatisfactory as sterilization was time-consuming and difficult under present circumstances. It was decided that single-use injection materials should be introduced for the next six months. UNICEF is making efforts to bring the required materials into the country and has requested other partners with the resources in-country to assist.

On 15 May, MSF-B and MOHS undertook a re-supply mission to Kabala by helicopter. The team carried one-month drugs and medical supplies for the hospital and four health centres. One medical doctor and a dispenser have now taken up residence in the town to begin health operations. MSF-B said it would continue regular helicopter visits to the area. The next mission will carry vaccines in preparation for an immunization campaign against the measles outbreak there.

MSF-F reported a significant increase in the number of war-wounded arriving at Connaught hospital in the last two weeks (see security section). This is largely due to recent rebel activities between Songo and Masiaka, although some victims have arrived from Port Loko. A total of 88 new surgeries were performed in the last two weeks. MSF-F acknowledged ECOMOG's efforts in bringing some of the victims to the hospital in time to save their lives. Handicap International reported that it had provided 150 pairs of crutches and 47 wheel chairs to war-wounded patients in its care. With the assistance of Concern Worldwide, it plans to set up a rehabilitation unit at the Murray Town camp for patients who will be given prosthesis.

In Kenema District, MERLIN continues to support the District Health Team and 10 PHU's. An additional PHU at Giema is also being supported. Assistance to two more PHU's at Hangha and Largo is being offered on a mobile basis following recent insecurity in the area. MERLIN is also operating three emergency clinics for IDPs located at Baama/Konta, the Lebanese School in Kenema and those at the St. Joseph's school in Blama. The measles isolation unit in Blama has now been closed as there are no more cases reported. Support for the paediatric ward at the Kenema hospital is ongoing.

Contrary to recent reports of a drug shortage in Bo, MERLIN confirmed that medical supplies in Bo were sufficient to meet current needs. The next round of supplies will be sent at the end of this month. The Sierra Leone Red Cross Society (SLRCS) is re-activating clinics in Bo and Kenema and also plans to airlift drugs to both locations.

CRS supports three mobile medical teams in the accessible parts of the southern province who operate outreach clinics in three rural chiefdoms not covered by the national health system. During the period under review, these teams were able to access and treat 800 patients. More than 1,500 people in the area also benefited from health education programmes.

Nutrition:

ACF continues nutritional programmes in operational areas. At the time of reporting, a total of 130 severely malnourished children were being treated at the Therapeutic Feeding Centre (TFC) in eastern Freetown. This represents an increase of 18 cases in the last two weeks. On 3 and 4 May, ACF conducted nutritional screening in Waterloo. Of the 376 children screened, 80 were found to be moderately malnourished while another 16 severely malnourished were admitted at the TFC. Nutritional screening is being planned for Newton and Songo areas where populations are starting to return. Screening programmes will also be undertaken for the Masiaka area as soon as the security situation improves. Dry ration distribution continues at four centres in Freetown for some 1,451 beneficiaries. ACF plans to set up a dry ration centre in Waterloo town within the next few weeks. An assessment of Barma/Konta (Kenema District) found 15 severely malnourished children who were transferred to Bo. Finally, data on new surveys in Bo and Yele will be made available in the next sitrep.

In Kenema District, MERLIN is providing therapeutic feeding at three sites, including Kenema hospital, Nongowa clinic and in Blama. By mid May, there were a total of 330 patients in all the centres. Supplementary feeding programmes are run from Kenema and Blama for over 2,000 beneficiaries.

Water and Sanitation

Watsan activities are ongoing in different IDP camps in Freetown and in Waterloo. At the Waterloo camp, ACF provided a 45-cubic meter water tank which will be connected to the dam. It also repaired seven pumps and constructed emergency latrines.

OXFAM continues to appeal for space for the construction of latrines at the Approved School camp which currently lacks toilet facilities. The Deputy Commission of NCRRR, Mr. Kanja Sesay, will address the issue with the relevant ministry.

The water problem at Parade Grounds camp is being addressed by the Water and Sanitation Division (WSD) in collaboration with OXFAM. UNICEF is also willing to assist if necessary.

The Christian Children's Fund (CCF) has donated garbage clearing and sanitary tools to the health and sanitation committee at the National Stadium.

Agencies involved in WATSAN activities are currently preparing their work plans for better coordination of WATSAN interventions at this critical period of the cholera season. The plans will be reviewed on a quarterly basis to highlight progress and constraints.

The water treatment plant and the two main pumps in Bo have not been functioning. There is also a need for fuel to restore water supply. MSF-B has offered to contribute Le5 million towards the repair of the pumps. The Government is also undertaking some measures to solve the problem. NGOs have been requested to assist with the cost of fuel which is estimated at Le 8 million. The European Union is willing to provide some funds through NGOs. ACF, MSF-B, OXFAM and WSD are meeting to work out the modalities for appropriate WATSAN intervention in the town. Also, CARE has commenced well construction in the area.

In Pujehun district, CRS is in the process of supporting six rural communities to construct or rehabilitate 10 wells and 20 latrines and to train and equip community maintenance teams.

WVI continues to provide Watsan assistance in Bonthe district through the cleaning of wells and installation of pumps and pulleys. As at end of April, 22 wells had been rehabilitated in the chiefdoms of Yawbeko, Kpandakemo and Jong. They plan to rehabilitate a total of 65 wells in the District.

Food Aid

Food aid intervention in areas outside Freetown have continued to be constrained by the closure of the Freetown-Bo highway and harassment of aid workers at various checkpoints. Recognising the consequences of these problems on vulnerable populations who are now facing a food crisis in Bo and Kenema, food aid agencies intensified efforts to seek a speedy solution to the problem. On 13 May, the interim UN Humanitarian Coordinator Mr Kingsley Amaning led an inter-agency team to a meeting with the Minister of Presidential Affairs, Mr. Momodou Koroma and the Secretary to the President, Dr. James Allie, who chairs the Government humanitarian taskforce. Mr. Amaning said the team was seeking the Government's assistance in finding a common solution to a shared problem: that of facilitating the delivery of emergency and commercial food to the Southern Province in particular. WFP Representative Patrick Buckley explained the food situation in the country, noting that over 100,000 MTs of food were imported to the country during 1998. Thus far in 1999, well under half of the normal requirement had been delivered. He advised the Government to seek alternative ways of meeting this year's shortfall, and said WFP would be willing to support initiatives aimed at increasing bilateral donations. He also told the officials that both relief and commercial trucks were being asked to pay unnecessary levies at checkpoints. The Government acknowledged that some problems had been reported to them, and stated it was willing to take necessary steps to address this situation. A number of follow up meetings have taken place to clarify clearance procedures, and further develop security procedures.

As the primary route between Freetown, Bo and Kenema continues to be unavailable for movement of relief goods, food aid agencies continue to pursue the possibility of using secondary options, particularly the Freetown-Nitti route. As part of its effort to address the problem, WFP has chartered a vessel for Food aid agencies to move substantial quantities of food required to address the needs of populations in Bo and Kenema for a one-month period. The boat is expected to begin operations before the end of the month. The Sierra Leone Roads Association (SLRA) has been provided with the necessary materials for the repair of the road between Nitti and Bo. Meanwhile, agencies will continue to prioritize vulnerable groups in Bo and Kenema with the remaining food stocks in Bo. WFP, WVI and CARE currently have sufficient quantities for Therapeutic and Supplementary Feeding Centres and for institutional feeding programmes.

With regard to the recent ECOMOG requirement for all food consignments to be de-stuffed and searched at the Freetown Port, WFP has written a letter to the appropriate authorities requesting that containers are searched only at the warehouse to avoid unnecessary delays, losses and extra labour costs.

On 4 May, WVI led an overnight verification at the Approved School camp. A total of 10,981 people were registered but due to security problems, an additional 4,000 people were not registered. The CFA has formally requested the NCRRR to guarantee security arrangements for such an exercise that takes place during curfew hours.

On 12 and 13 May, WVI carried out vulnerable group feeding to 3,196 IDPs at the Bailor Barrie camp in Kissy. The food was provided by USAID.

WFP completed verification of IDPs at the Waterloo camp last week and will distribute two-week food rations to 8,953 beneficiaries on 18 May.

Agriculture:

The Agricultural Technical Committee chaired by the Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Environment has been holding a series of meetings to discuss the 1999 cropping season within the context of continuing insecurity and accessibility constraints. As part of an effort to better coordinate activities in the sector, and to identify existing gaps, input distribution forms are being sent to operational agencies to update the Agriculture Database currently maintained by UN-HACU.

AFRICARE is continuing to support agricultural activities in Kenema District. It recently extended programmes to the lower Dama chiefdom where programmes were suspended in December 1998 due to the deterioration of security. Food production and seed distribution activities have also been extended to Blama where beneficiaries are receiving cassava cuttings, seed rice, groundnuts and vegetables. For this planting season, AFRICARE is targeting a total of 7,000 farming families in Bo, Pujehun and Kenema.

Also in the southern province, CRS is implementing an agricultural recovery project with a caseload of about 5,000 farming families in four chiefdoms. Distribution of upland seed rice and tools to approximately 2,000 farmers started in early May, while groundnut seeds and cassava cuttings will be distributed to households and community groups as soon as possible.

WVI has completed registration of 2,000 farming families in Sorogbema and Makpele chiefdoms in Pujehun district for distribution of seeds and tools. They have also planned the provision of inputs for roots and tuber production for 736 acres in Mattru Jong, 98 acres in Torma Bum and 220 acres in Kenema.

CAD will be commencing its initial distributions in Loko Massama in the next two weeks, security allowing.

Child Protection

As of mid May, UNICEF registered a total of 3,384 children missing since January 1999 in the Freetown area. Some 517 of those documented had been found and reunified with their families, leaving another 2,767 still missing. Social workers continue to visit the families of all registered missing children. In the last two weeks, the team identified 149 children who had returned to their homes. ADRA reported that it has had to intensify its family tracing and reunification programme in collaboration with UNICEF and other agencies in order to adequately respond to the escalation of rebel atrocities on children.

Over 500 cases of gross child rights violations have now been registered. Support to these children is provided through a consortium of organizations under the Child Protection Network. The CCSL Secretariat, which is supported by UNICEF, is in the process on finalising its quarterly report on child rights violations.

A number of agencies and the Ministry of Social Welfare attended a meeting in Liberia on the issue of separated Sierra Leonean children in refugee camps. The aim was to examine cross border tracing and reunification between Guinea, Liberian and Sierra Leone. The meeting proposed that a centralised database be created for the three countries to facilitate family tracing.

UNICEF recently signed an agreement with the Irish NGO GOAL, to provide services to street children in Freetown. GOAL is working in collaboration with the City Council. A proposal to carry out a situation analysis of street children in Freetown and Bo is currently being finalised.

The International Rescue Committee's (IRC) Child Protection Division is beginning programmes aimed at meeting the psychosocial needs of children and youth in IDP centres. Recognising that children and youth have a complex set of needs in addition to those of basic survival, the programmes attempt to address needs through a comprehensive approach, including education, recreation and healing programmes. Support for temporary formal and non-formal education in IDP centres, within the existing child protection framework will meet immediate needs while facilitating continued education once children are resettled in their communities. Recreation activities, coordinated by IDPs themselves, provide a basis for healthy development. Healing progammes, as an extended service, will address the needs of those who have difficulties coping with their experiences.

At the beginning of the month, CRS began supporting 25 non-formal education centers for over 3,000 at-risk youth in Freetown. These centers, which cater to displaced, orphaned, street and other disadvantaged children were forced to close following the rebel incursion into Freetown in January. CRS will support the centers with food aid, reconstruction material and education/recreational items.

Refugees

Verification of Liberian refugees in Freetown, Bo and Kenema continued throughout the period being reviewed. UNCHR reported that it was still in the process of determining the number of refugees willing to be repatriated. By end of this period, it had verified a total of 3,790 in Freetown and Waterloo. Only 15 per cent of this number have indicated their interest to be repatriated.

For comments/contributions, please contact: Ahunna Eziakonwa, Humanitarian Affairs Officer (Information)
Email: aeziaki@hotmail.com; Tel: 232 22 227764/227759