OCHA Situation Report
Sierra Leone
August 2003
18 September 2003



Source: UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA)

SECURITY HIGHLIGHTS

According to UNAMSIL, the overall security situation in the country is
calm.

SLP arrests armed robbers in Freetown

The SLP arrested four soldiers and seven civilians in possession of one
rifle and live rounds ammunition at Up-gun in eastern Freetown.
Investigation is in progress.

Military officials to be retired

About 1,000 military officials who have reached the age of 55 years would
be retired by the end of the year as part of the restructuring program of
the army. The four-year program intends to reduce the size of the army
from 13,800 troops to 10,500 by the end of 2007. The retired officials
will get benefits and resettlement package.

SLP trains drivers

The first batch of 21 police drivers completed a four-week training at
Waterloo in Freetown. By December 2004, 460 new police drivers would have
undergone training.

A new accommodation complex for RSLAF education center at Wilberforce
Barracks

Through the initiative of the IMATT commander, Brigadier Adrain Freer, the
International Military Advisory and training team constructed a student
accommodation complex at the Wilberforce Barracks in Freetown. The complex
was officially opened on 12 August and is meant to accommodate military
students in Adult literacy and numeracy courses.

SLP clears street traders off the main streets in Freetown

The Sierra Leone Police carried out an exercise named "Operation Free
Flow" in order to clear the main streets of Freetown of street trading,
junk vehicles and shabby stalls that have for long contributed to
restricting of vehicle and pedestrian traffic in the city. Though the
exercise initially encountered some reaction from the street traders, the
operation seems successful, as the main streets of Freetown have been
decongested.

DONOR HIGHLIGHTS

United Nation Agencies in Sierra Leone held memorial service for victims
of explosion in Iraq

In a solemn ceremony, members of the United Nations Agencies in Sierra
Leone gathered at the UNAMSIL headquarter on Friday 22 August in a
memorial tribute for their colleagues who died in the 19 August explosion
of the United Nations office in Baghdad, Iraq. While expressing his
condolence on behalf of government, the Deputy Foreign Minister, Dr.
Mohamed L Kamara condemned the attack and called for the perpetrators to
be brought to justice. The Acting SRSG, Mr. Alan Doss in his tribute
recalled the late Special Representative of the Secretary General,
Ambassador Sergio Viera De Mello, as a truly remarkable and outstanding
civil servant.

Sierra Leone Appeal 2004

UNOCHA in partnership with the UN Country Team, INGOs, NGOs and government
representatives continued work on the Sierra Leone Consolidated Appeal
2004. The first draft was produced this month and is been reviewed by UN
agency Heads for the final production.

POLITICAL HIGHLIGHTS

Fourth State of the Nation's Symposium held in Freetown

The Ministry of information and Broadcasting organized a two-week long
Fourth State of the Nation's Symposium at the Atlantic Hall at the
National Stadium in Freetown. The symposium brought forth the Ministers of
the various ministries as well as heads of commissions to give an account
of development issues within their ministries, highlighting achievements
and challenges. It also gave the public the opportunity to dialogue with
their stewards on key development issues.

A New British High Commissioner for Sierra Leone

The new British High Commissioner assigned to Sierra Leone, Dr. John
Mitchiner, presented his credentials to President Kabbah at the
presidential lodge on Friday 22 August. In his maiden speech, Dr.
Mitchiner reaffirmed Britain's commitment to peace and democracy in Sierra
Leone, and highlighted the need to establish control over the diamond area
and to tackle corruption, amongst other problems in the country.

Local Government elections slated for March 2004

In furthering the process of decentralization, the district and local
council elections have been slated for March 2004.

Cabinet meeting held in Bo

President Kabbah held the GOSL mobile cabinet meeting in Bo, the southern
province capital, on Thursday 7 August. Rumors of planned disruption by
the local militia (Karmajor) were amicably defused at a prior meeting with
the President on Wednesday night. The issues of teachers' unpaid salaries
and the rising cost of the staple food, rice, were key concerns of the
public. The president blamed the non-payment of salaries on the failure by
their employing authorities to properly communicate with the ministry of
Education, but promised to address the issue. On the rising cost of rice,
he explained that it was due the impact of the rise in dollar value on the
liberalized trade process of the country. Also during their meeting, the
president launched the book titled "The Sierra Leone Constitution for the
Layman" written by Dr Peter L Tucker. He also commissioned one water
bouser to the Bo Town Council.

The southern region representatives identified salient developmental
program to include road network, updating the pipe borne water supply
system and electricity, improving health care delivery services, mining
activities and agriculture in the region.

Boundary dispute between Nieni chiefdom in Koinadugu and Sandor chiefdom
in Kono district leads to violence

The boundary dispute between the Nieni and Sandor chiefdoms resulted to
the recent burning of houses in both chiefdoms. Some Police were deployed
in the area to forestall further attacks. The Resident Ministers East and
North and stakeholders in the area were to meet in Makeni on the 1
September to settle the dispute.

Mono River Bridge reopened

President Kabba indicated that the Mano River Bridge would be open to
enable the movement of humanitarian assistance across the border. The
border bridge is open only to pedestrian traffic at this time in order to
help prevent import of looted goods.

President Kabbah launches Kono Peace Diamond Alliance

The President launched the Kono Peace Diamond Alliance in Kono on 27
August. The organization is aimed at improving the legal aspects and
profitability of diamond mining in the country. The Alliance comprises of
representative of the Government of Sierra Leone, the United States Agency
for International Development (USAID), Department for International
Development (DFID), industry experts, and the community people.

Former Police Inspector General and Chief Electoral Commissioner for the
May 2002 elections, die in London

The former Police Inspector General Mr. Walter O Nicol, who as Chief
Electoral Commissioner took this country through the last May 2002
presidential and parliamentary elections, died on 23 August, in London,
where he was being treated for Cancer of the throat. The President opened
a book of condolence on 1 September at the National Electoral Commission
Office in Freetown, followed by the Vice President and Ministers. He was
57 years old.

Remains of former President J S Momoh laid to rest

Former President Joseph Momoh died in Guinea on 12 August and was given a
state funeral on 24 August in Freetown. The President, Vice President, and
the Speaker of the House were amongst the crowd of government officials
who paid their respects, prior to opening a condolence book at the State
House.

Rokel commercial bank reopened in Kono

The diamond district of Kono has been relieved of the dire need of a
banking service by the reopening of the Rokel Commercial Bank that was
closed due to the war.

Celtel now in Kono

In another development, CELTEL telephone company launched their services
in the district this month. This has contributed to make it easier for
Government officials, humanitarian agencies, businessmen and the people of
Kono to communicate with all parts of the country as well as the rest of
the world.

Residents of the South meet with Sierra Mineral Holdings to discuss social
impacts of the mining activities on their community

A meeting was called in Bo on 15 August between all stakeholders of Bo,
Bonthe and Moyamba Districts, and Sierra Mineral Holdings Limited (SML) in
relation to the reactivation of the Bauxite and Rutile mines in the
region. The deliberations included environmental impact, surface rents,
community benefits, rehabilitation of previous mining sites, roles and
responsibilities of SML and many more.

President Kabbah commissioned the Moyamba Junction market

President Kabbah officially commissioned the newly constructed modern
market at Moyamba Junction, Fakunia Chiefdom on 6 August. The Government
through NaCSA funded the market construction. The market which is
strategically located to link the city to the east and southern regions
will provide a safe and conducive atmosphere for trading, and the
protection of goods from environmental hazards. A highlight of the
occasion was the disbursement of micro credit loans in the district to the
tune of Le 22M to deserving businesswomen by the Director of SAPA.

SPECIAL COURT

The public questions the relevance of the Special Court

Due to the death of Foday Sankoh and the unconfirmed death of Sam Bockarie
and Johnny Paul Koroma, there has been increasing discussions over the
relevance of the Special Court. Some Sierra Leoneans are of the view that
the Court is losing its relevance, as the 'so called' main players are no
longer available for prosecution. In an attempt to apprise the public on
the relevance of the Court, the Special Court has embarked on a
countrywide outreach program, with a particular focus on questions and
answers.

Detainees moved to new complex in Freetown

The Court has moved its detainees from a temporary detention facility on
Bonthe Island to the newly constructed high-security detention facility in
Freetown. This gives the lawyers easy access to their clients and families
the opportunity to visit the detainees.

Special Court maintain its stand on the indictment of Charles Taylor

In reaction to the exile of Charles Taylor to Nigeria, the Special Court
acknowledges that though his removal from power is significant yet it is
an incomplete step forward for West Africa. The Court stands firm that
Charles Taylor must be brought to justice in order for the region to
experience stable peace. Ex-President Charles Taylor has challenged the
court's jurisdiction to prosecute him.

TRUTH AND RECONCILATION COMMISSION (TRC)

TRC closes public hearings

The Commission formerly closed its public hearing phase in August by
organizing a march past that was climaxed by the renaming of the Congo
Cross Bridge to 'Peace Bridge' in Freetown. The Commission had asked for a
6 months extension to finalise its report. In collaboration with their
partners, they are currently seeking out for appropriate ways to
disseminate the contents of the report.

President Kabbah gives testimony at the TRC

The commission held public hearings with President Kabbah on Tuesday 5
August. The president gave testimony of his past experience as President
of the nation. He pointed to the fact that he inherited the war from the
NPRC military regime, as a democratically elected president. He also
mentioned that he inherited a distorted security system with a highly
politicized army that was not loyal to the government, and was faced with
the challenge of restoring the national security but, was unfortunately
ousted by the AFRC coup in 1997. The President avoided commenting on the
current indictees, but cleared the mind of the populace on a possible
extension of his office come 2007. He called for the criminalisation of
any President for any attempt to extend his stay in office.

HUMANITARIAN HIGHLIGHTS

Western area Rural District Recovery Committee (DRC) to be launched

The western rural District Recovery Committee would be launched on
Thursday 4 September. The committee with technical support from NaCSA,
UNOCHA, UNAMSIL and line ministries are on a sensitization tour of
communities in the Rural District. Meetings with the people have been very
significant as communities get to understand the role of the DRC. It also
gives them the opportunity to dialogue with line ministries on several
concerns.

To enhance the capacity of members of the Urban District Recovery
Committee, UNAMSIL, OCHA and NaCSA intend to facilitate a half-day
workshop for DRC urban members on the role and significance of the DRC in
the communities.

NRC/DRC meeting held in Moyamba

The joint session meeting of the National Recovery Committee and District
Recovery Committee for Moyamba District was held on the 12 August 2003, at
the Harford Secondary School for Girls. There were over one hundred
participants including members of parliament, cabinet ministers, local
dignitaries, donors, NRC and DRC members and security forces. Highlights
of the occasion included site visits, presentation of DRC report followed
by discussions and donor pledges. OCHA and UNAMSIL Civil Affairs
facilitated the Moyamba and Bonthe DRC members to compile their respective
District Recovery Reports for consideration at the NRC meeting.

NaCSA on community sensitization for the National Social Action Plan

In a bid to ensure full communities participation in the National Social
Action Program (NSAP), NaCSA is on a series of sensitization meetings
using the Participatory Poverty Assessment approach in their communities
of intervention throughout the country.

SUBREGIONAL HIGHLIGHTS

LIBERIA

Liberia President visits Sierra Leone

The Liberian President, Moses Blah, accompanied by Former Nigerian Head of
State Abubakar Abdulsalam and other dignitaries briefly visited Lungi
Airport, where they met with President Kabbah on 22 August. President Blah
expressed regret for his country's role in Sierra Leone's civil war, and
assured Sierra Leoneans that the past will not be repeated. He stated that
his mission was to extend a hand of friendship to the people of Sierra
Leone and expressed their willingness to apologise to the people of Sierra
Leone. President Blah invited President Kabbah to visit Monrovia. In
response, President Kabbah accepted the invitation stating that his
government had no problem with the people of Liberia, but only with Taylor
as an individual.

U.N. SRSG to Liberia visits Sierra Leone

The new U.N. SRSG for Liberia, Jacques Klein met with President Kabba and
his Vice President in Freetown on Tuesday 26 August. His visit was part of
a sub regional tour to discuss Liberia situation with West African
Leaders. He also met with U.S. Ambassador Peter Chaveas, Special Court
Chief Prosecutor David Crane, and senior UNAMSIL staff. While expressing
his concern over the humanitarian situation in Liberia, he also hoped that
a U.N. mandate for a peacekeeping force in Liberia would be forthcoming
between mid September and the beginning of October.

The Interim Liberia leader chosen in Accra, Ghana

After two months of staggering peace talks in Accra, the businessman Gyde
Bryant was on 22 August unanimously appointed as the head of the interim
government for Liberia. Bryant would be sworn in as the chairman of the
interim government in October and remains in power until 2004 when general
elections would be held. Wesley Johnson, chairman of the United People's
Party, is his Vice President. Bryant edged out Ellen Johnson-Sirleaf, a
veteran opposition figure and a former UN official, and Rudolph Sherman, a
member of the Whig Party.

Liberia finally signs Peace Agreement

The government of Liberia and the two fighting rebel factions finally
signed peace agreement on Monday 18 August after almost two months of
though negotiations in Accra. The peace agreement is hoped to end 14 years
of war in Liberia and provides for a two-year transitional government that
will be inclusive of the three fighting factions though none is to hold
the top positions.

Monrovia gradually returns to peace as Charles Taylor hands over power

Life seems to be gradually picking up in Monrovia after President Taylor
finally handed over power to his vice President Moses Blah, in a solemn
ceremony attended by the South African President Thabo Mbeki, the Ghanian
President John Kuffoir, and representatives of other West African states,
at the Presidential lodge in Monrovia on Monday 11 August. President
Taylor was immediately flown to Nigeria where he was offered political
asylum on the strict warning that he stays out of Liberia politics.

The ECCOMIL forces and some US marines had moved into the city bringing
much security relief to the people. The UN and ECOWAS are to work out
modalities for a full deployment of peacekeeping forces throughout the
country and a disarmament program for the fighting forces similar to that
of Sierra Leone. Some 250 Senegalese and Malian troops are expected to
join ECOMIL soon while other West African countries are yet to make their
commitments. Though the rebels have pulled out of the city in their
fulfillment of the peace agreement, fighting is still reported in Bong,
Nimba and Grand Bassa Counties in the interior of the country. ECOMIL
however, recently visited Tubmanburg in Bomi County and Bo Waterside on
the Sierra Leonean border for a possible future deployment of forces.

The UN Agencies and some humanitarian organizations have returned to
Monrovia and started giving humanitarian aid to the IDPs in the city,
while making efforts to access the interior especially areas held by the
rebel forces. In a related development, the government of Sierra Leone has
taken measures to prevent ex-combatants as well as looted goods from
entering the country from Liberia.

Ship carrying relief items for Liberia sinks

A Sierra Leonean ship Madam Patricia, chartered by the charity agency,
World Vision sunk in a storm on Saturday 16 August on its way to Liberia.
The 22-crew members were rescued by a helicopter but the goods worth
$186,000 of relief items all sunk.

SECTORAL HIGHLIGHTS

AGRICULTURE

FAO, UNHCR and MAFFS collaborate on agriculture support to camps

In a bid to augment the food basket of refugees in the eight refugee camps
and the host community, FAO in collaboration with Ministry of Agriculture,
Forestry and Food Security prepared a package comprising upland and inland
valley swamp rice, groundnut and vegetable seeds for the first and second
cropping seasons. The UNHCR is funding this activity.

CRS distributes food for Agriculture

CRS completed a Food-for-Agriculture distribution during the cropping
season for a total of 8,420 farm families. in Bombali, Kailahun, Koinadugu
and Kenema districts. CRS also continues to assist other agencies in CRS
operational areas on Food-for-Agriculture distributions.

FAO to construct grain stores for CRS

FAO will be constructing grain stores in CRS operational areas.
Participating communities have already been identified and selected.

NGOs collaborate to develop an agricultural marketing concept paper

CRS, AFRICARE, CARE, and World Vision are collaborating on a joint
agricultural marketing concept paper to complement the Transition
Assistance Program (TAP).

FAO gives support to Liberian refugee farmers

FAO supported Liberian refugee farmers with cassava cutting project and
the procurement of vegetable, groundnut seeds and seed rice for 11000 farm
family members.

WFP holds workshop with IPs on protective relief and recovery operations
in Kenema

A 2-day Workshop was held by WFP for Implementing Partners in Kenema on
the Protective Relief and Recovery Operation. WFP stressed that the Sierra
Leone program has to be viewed in a Regional context, and that food may be
provided on a loan basis. They informed that the organization is in a
transition from emergency relief activities to recovery, which imply that
they would focus on a more integrated approach, such as mother and health,
developmental school feeding programs and seed protection/sustainable seed
bank systems. They informed that Food for Agriculture would be phased out
by end of 2003, with new programs providing support to beneficiaries in a
more holistic approach, by using food as tools to enhance community
progress.

EDUCATION

Ministry of Finance conducts survey on budget allocated to various
ministries

The Public Expenditure Tracking Survey (PETS) unit of the Ministry of
Finance started a monitoring survey of budgets allocated to the various
Government line ministries in the country to ascertain transparency and
accountability of dispensation. The PETS did a pilot survey with the
ministry of education, targeting six schools in each district.
Specifically, the survey was to examine the service delivery system of the
Ministry of Education Science and Technology. The full-scale survey is to
commence on 8 September.

Norwegian Refugee Council (NRC) schools construction work in Kono
constrained by poor roads

The ongoing rehabilitation and reconstruction of two primary schools in
Kono by NRC, funded by DFID, was constrained by the depreciation of the
access road to one of the sites - KDEC Dewadu. However, DFID approved the
use of contingency funds to reconstruct a bridge leading to the school.
The communities also actively participated in this exercise. The bridge
has been repaired but time is needed for the concrete to cure which means
that the construction work is temporarily halted until 22 September.
Construction activities at the other school in Canaan are smoothly
progressing and nearing completion.

NRC develops education project proposal for Kambia District

NRC submitted a finalised project proposal for the World Bank/ADB basic
education project, REBEP. The revised proposal takes into consideration
comments and suggestions made by the Project Co-ordination Unit (PCU). A
total of 15 schools would be rehabilitated or reconstructed with support
under the project. NRC awaits approval.

CHILD PROTECTION

MSWGCA on family tracing of war affected children

The Child Protection Secretariat of the Ministry of Social Welfare, Gender
and Children's Affairs informed that there are presently 9,710 children
looking for their families, 6,619 families are looking for missing
children and 6,680 children have been returned to their families. The
Secretariat works with many agencies including UNHCR, IRC, COOPI and Save
the Children Fund-UK to rescue destitute children.

NACWAC on operation clear street children

The national commission for war affected children in working on the
rehabilitation of street children has established a series of permanent
centers in the city where the children would be provided with shelter and
basic skill training. They intend to unify these children with their
parents or find them foster parents.

FOOD AID

WFP COUNTRYWIDE SUPPORT

Countrywide, WFP supported a total of 59,780 beneficiaries (34,998 female)
with 1521.06 MT of food during the reporting period. Vulnerable group
feeding (VGF) program (refugees, resettlement, returnees and institutions)
supported 36,357 beneficiaries (20,398 female) with 759.67 MT of food. The
Therapeutic Feeding Centers/ Supplementary Feeding/ and Mother and Child
Health Program (TFC/SFP/MCH) provided 36.3 MT of food to 8,585
beneficiaries comprising under-fives, pregnant women, lactating mothers
and TFC caretakers. Safety nets (Institutional Feeding) provided 1,268
(624 female) beneficiaries with 15.68 Mt of food aid.

Food for Agriculture program distributed 107.93 Mt of assorted food items
for farm families in Luawa, Kissi Tongi, Dae, Mandu, Kissi Kama and Kissi
Teng chiefdoms in Kailahun district.

The Therapeutic Feeding Center in Kenema distributed 0.42 Mt of food items
to 272 beneficiaries and 3.31 Mt to 205 caretakers. In addition 4.692 Mt
of food were distributed to 272 beneficiaries in Kenema Government
hospital and 0.900 Mt of food were dispatched to 158 beneficiaries in
Gondama camp.

The Vulnerable Group Feeding resettlement program received 151.98 Mt of
food for 4,656 beneficiaries in Kissi Tongi and Luawa chiefdoms. In
addition 2.09 Mt of food items were also distributed to 337 beneficiaries
at the Mapeh camp.

Support for grinding machines for refugee camps

WFP has received a positive response of potential funding for the proposal
to purchase and install hand grinders for all but one of the camps. WFP is
still awaiting confirmation of funds from donor agents.

HEALTH

President Kabbah opens rehabilitated Koindu Hospital in Kono

On Wednesday 28 August, President Kabbah opened the newly rehabilitated
Government Hospital in Koidu Town, Kono District. The US Government under
USAID did the rehabilitation which costs $579,765. This move now provides
the Kono residents with the facility of a modern hospital since it was
destroyed during the war.

CRS provides furniture for PHUs in Pujehun and Kailahun

CRS purchased furniture for 9 peripheral public health units that it is
supporting construction of, in Pujehun and Kailahun districts.

WHO on Lassa Fever surveillance

WHO in collaboration with MERLIN continued with lassa fever surveillance
in the refugee camps through sensitization campaigns on food and safe
drinking water and the protection and control of rats. Two suspected cases
from Jimmi Bagbo camp were admitted at the Kenema General Hospital. One
referred case from Largo died while en-route to the Kenema Government
Hospital. It was also observed that refugees in Largo do not report the
deaths of their relatives to the clinic before burial. MERLIN is
sensitizing refugees that a death certificate cannot be issued without
knowing the cause of death. WHO also noted that though safe drinking water
and toilet facilities have improves in most of the camps, the incidence of
malaria is still prevalent.

Outbreak of Yellow Fever in Tonkolili District

Following reports of a yellow fever out-break in the Bumbuna area in the
Kalansogoaia Chiefdom, there were recent reports of cases in Kolipha
Rowala, Samaia Bendugu and Kafe Simra Chiefdoms too. WHO team of
vaccinators has been giving vaccines to all residents in the district.
They are also doing sensitization of communities on the disease and they
intend to extend the exercise to the neighbouring districts. Findings of
WHO revealed that the recent cause of the disease is indigenous.

HIV/AIDS

CCSL launches HIV/AIDS poster competition

The Council of Churches in Sierra Leone (CCSL) in collaboration with the
National HIV/AIDS Secretariat and other partners have launched a Global
Poster Competition against HIV/AIDS related stigma and discrimination. The
theme of the competition was 'Make a poster.. Make a statement.. Make a
difference!' The weeklong national poster competition emphasised the
relevance of HIV/AIDS to churches, mosques and community groups, teaching
them about the subject and deepening their understanding about stigma and
discrimination associated with the disease. Local competitions were held
in Freetown, Bo, Kenema, Makeni and Kono. Several posters were developed,
carrying messages of compassion love and care, depicting positive
attitudes and behaviours to overcome HIV/AIDS related stigma and
discrimination.

Caritas-Makeni holds workshop on HIV/AIDS Peer Education in Bombali
District

Under the Catholic Relief Service (CRS), Caritas-Makeni in collaboration
with the Shepherd's Hospice, held a two days training workshop for 37
teachers and health officer on HIV/AIDS Peer Education Training in Makeni.
The training sought to increase the knowledge of participants on HIV/AIDS,
sexually transmitted infections (STI), and the development of positive
behaviour change.

HUMAN RIGHTS

The Human Rights Committee facilitated by UNAMSIL continues its regular
fortnightly meetings and is planning to conduct a training of Human Rights
Monitors nationwide.

CRS trains CDCs on peace building

The CRS Peace building team completed the training of community
development committees (CDC) in 15 chiefdoms in the South and East
provinces.

INFORMATION

Establishment of an information management committee

An Information Management Committee has been established under the
National Recovery Committee (NRC) Technical Committee, developed from an
informal OCHA-led GIS User Group and the PASCO led Monitoring and
Evaluation Committee. The objective is to improve strategic development
planning and resource allocation mechanisms through data analysis. The
committee would be responsible for the coordination of information
management systems in relation with the monitoring of national strategies
and coordination of development assistance such as the National Recovery
Strategy and the coming PRSP.

Government to validate sectoral district data pack

Facilitated by OCHA, the new sectoral data packs from the 2nd data
collection exercise of the district recovery committees are currently
being validated by the relevant government ministries and would be ready
for distribution in September.

REFUGEE

Refugees movement in the border areas

The UNHCR reported that the movement of refugee convoys into and from the
border areas remained sparse. In Kailahun, 349 Liberian refugees in 158
families entered Sierra Leone this month and were transferred to the Largo
camp. Meanwhile, the ICRC facilitated visits of some 87 family members to
interned refugees at Mapeh in Port Loko. Also a convoy of 400 refugees
were organized and transferred to Tobanda camp from Blama and Dauda way
station.


REFUGEE POPULATION - UNHCR

|-----------------+----------------+------------|
|    Location     |Pre-registration|  Current   |
|                 |                | population |
|-----------------+----------------+------------|
|Bandajuma camp   |           6,011|       4,448|
|-----------------+----------------+------------|
|Gerrihun camp    |           6,835|       6,738|
|-----------------+----------------+------------|
|Gondama camp     |           9,025|       8,440|
|-----------------+----------------+------------|
|Jembe camp       |           6,952|       6,987|
|-----------------+----------------+------------|
|Jimmi Bagbo camp |           6,527|       6,042|
|-----------------+----------------+------------|
|Largo camp       |           7,301|       7,016|
|-----------------+----------------+------------|
|Taiiama camp     |           7,511|       6,924|
|-----------------+----------------+------------|
|Tobanda camp     |           4,474|       6,490|
|-----------------+----------------+------------|
|Blama waystation |               0|         499|
|-----------------+----------------+------------|
|Dauda waystation |               0|         447|
|-----------------+----------------+------------|
|Jui waystation   |               0|          62|
|-----------------+----------------+------------|
|Kailahun         |              13|          24|
|waystation       |                |            |
|-----------------+----------------+------------|
|Zimmi waystation |               0|         181|
|-----------------+----------------+------------|
|Total            |          54,649|      54,298|
|-----------------+----------------+------------|


LFW donates used clothes to UNHCR

LWF offered to UNHCR a donation of three containers of NFI from Lutheran
World Relief in Baltimore USA for distribution in the refugee camps. The
items are worth $237,000 and consist of men and children's clothing,
blankets, quilts, layettes, soap and health kits.

MSF-B holds hygiene workshop in Gondama camp

MSF-B has conducted a three-day training-of-trainers workshop for 30
hygiene promoters in Gondama including refugees and host community
members.

Lutheran World Federation distributes second hand clothing to refugees in
Bo and Kenema

Lutheran World Federation distributed second-hand clothing to refugees in
Kenema and Bo, and 100 pieces of mentor plastic sheets for use in Tobanda
Camp.

The Environmental Foundation for Africa (EFA) conducts workshop in Gondama
camp

The Environmental Foundation for Africa (EFA) conducted a three-day
workshop in Gondama focusing on the production of eco-stoves, sustainable
agriculture, income generation, and awareness rising. A group was formed
to monitor the implementation of activities and further sensitize
refugees. EFA have also trained 14 individuals on the use of GPS and GIS
in order to support EFA staff in mapping farms and gardens within the
camp.

RETURNEE/DISPLACED REPATRIATION/RESETTLEMENT

Due to the heavy rains, the UNHCR suspended repatriation of Sierra Leonean
refugees from Guinea this month.

UNHCR resumes returnee repatriation from Monrovia

The UNHCR hired ship MV Overbeck resumed its sailing to Monrovia on 13
August following the improved security situation. The ship left the shores
of Sierra Leone carrying non-food items for Liberia emergency, diesel fuel
for the office and food for the HCR staff, and returned to Freetown on 19
August with 206 returnees the majority Sierra Leoneans. The returnees were
taken to the Jui transient center where the children under five years were
given measles vaccine and those enroute to Tonkolili district were given
yellow fever vaccine. The ship however encountered mechanical problems on
its second trip but was rescued and towed into Freetown with the returnees
safely on board.

SHELTER

CRS proceeds with housing projects in Koinadugu, Kailahun and Grafton

The Catholic Relief Services have completed the shelter projects in
Koinadugu and Kailahun.

The transitional housing project at Grafton in Freetown is in progress.
Forty-one houses have already been roofed, and they are working with the
Ministry of Lands to procure the title deeds for individual beneficiaries.

WATSAN

UNICEF, OCHA and partners on WATSAN survey

UNICEF in collaboration with UNHCR, UNAMSIL CIVIL Affairs, UNOCHA, WATSAN
stakeholders and the Kambia DRC conducted an assessment of WATSAN
facilities in the district from the 15 July to 5 August. It was discovered
that certain large communities lack toilet facility, especially market
centers. It was also discovered that some communities had wells with
faulty pumps that could be repaired. They intend to conduct the survey
throughout the country to provide a complete situation analysis of the
coverage in water and sanitation sector. The survey will also provide the
local government with a database of all water and sanitation facilities,
which they can continue to update and monitor on their own. A continuation
of the survey is scheduled for 15 September in Kailahun and 22 September
in Kono.

REGIONAL HIGHLIGHTS

SOUTHERN REGION

Security

The region remains calm and quiet likewise the border area of the Zimmi
axis with no sign of refugee influx.

Refugees riot at Bandajuma refugee camp

The on going distribution of plastic sheets to communities in Phase II of
the camp was disrupted on the 28 August, when a group of 40 to 50 refugees
materialized from Phase III communities singing and chanting invectives at
the camp management because they were informed that they would not be
supplied with plastic sheets until the next season. As the situation
became uncontrollable, the riot Police were called upon, who eventually
controlled the crowd. A meeting was summoned between representatives of
the rioters and the Country Director and Coordinator of Peace Winds Japan,
the Paramount Chief of Sowa Chiefdom, Camp manager, representatives from
NaCSA, UNHCR, OCHA and the Police Inspector in charge of the camp. The
policy on the supply of plastic sheeting was clarified to the refugees
while the aid workers promised to consider their case. A strict warning
was given to the rioters to avoid the consequences of the law.

Political

Inter Agency Forum

At the IAF in Bo, the poor attendance by representatives of line
ministries was again noted. Some key issues deliberated upon were:

   NaCSA in collaboration with UNHCR received proposals for Community
   Projects and approved six of these projects amounting to $10,000.
   Participatory Poverty Assessment (PPA) exercises have been conducted in
   the approved communities,

   Ministry for Social Welfare, Gender and Children's Affairs conducted a
   capacity building workshop for 50 children in Bo District and also
   reaffirmed the need for a Remand Home and the registration of Amputees
   in the region through UNAMSIL and FAO respectively,

   Ministry of Education, Science and Technology requested agencies work
   plans and reported the commencement of HIPC projects in the region but
   were particularly not pleased with the materials used at Serabu,

   Of concern was the extra charges levied by school authorities on
   parents who were advised to resist such activities,

   Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Food Security reported of the
   distribution of inputs to farmers and the conduct of Regional and
   National elections for the National Farmers Association,

   MILOB reported complaints from ex-combatants about their tool kits.


Agencies Consultative Meetings

At the agencies consultative meeting, WATSAN, Laser fever, replacement of
plastic sheeting, camp verification, agriculture support and the pending
rape cases in the Magistrate Court were of key concerns. Other issues
discussed included: the non-conduct of night patrols at Gondama Refugee
Camp; request for the completion of the health center at Gondama;
improvement of roads network to promote agriculture, and support to the
agricultural sector; mining policies for Rutile and Bauxite minerals to
benefit the people; decentralization process and the role of Paramount
Chiefs in the Councils to be established; utilization of the water falls
within the district for rural energy supply and provision of safe drinking
water to rural communities; the provision of training facilities for youth
empowerment and the conversion of railway facilities to youth training
centers at Rotifunk and Bauya.

AGRICULTURE

National Farmers Association Executive Elections held in Bo Town

The Officials of the Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Food Security,
District Authorities, the Electoral Commission and local residents
participated in the conduct of election of President and Executives of the
National Farmers Association.

Niawa Lenga Chiefdom responds to the Presidents clarion call for food
security.

In a bid to contribute to food self-sufficiency by the year 2007, the
Paramount Chief and the people of Niawa Lenga Chiefdom have embarked on
extensive rice and groundnut cultivation in the chiefdom. To enhance
additional cultivation, the Paramount Chief is appealing to humanitarian
agencies to support road network in the Chiefdom with the view to reach
out more farmers and improve market possibilities of their produce.

EDUCATION

Paramount Chief of Valunia Chiefdom appeals for the rehabilitation of
Koyeima Secondary School in Bo district

Though funds have been allocated for the rehabilitation of this school,
the work has not commenced yet. Being the main provider of education and
job opportunity for the people of the Chiefdom, the Paramount chief is
appealing for the rehabilitation work to commence.

CAMP MANAGEMENT

Gondama Refugee Camp

The constructions of permanent school structures are in progress and two
of them have attained wall height. Also, the plastering of the skills
training classroom blocks is complete with doors and windows fitted.

The construction of a center for SGBV activities is also in progress.

Jimmy Bagbo Camp - Peace Winds Japan

Under the overall management of Peace Wind Japan the following are
reported;

- Refugees plead for the replacement of worn out plastic sheeting on
family booths in the camp.

- YMCA supplied 35 bales of used clothing to refugees in Jimmy Bagbo camp
while NaCSA, PWJ and UNHCR monitored the distribution.

- PWJ and MSF conducted a joint assessment of sanitary conditions in the
camp

- UNHCR Community Services Officers in Bo and Kenema held HIV/AIDS
sensitization in the camp on 6 August 2003.

- Food distribution commenced on 13 August. A pre-distribution exercise
was conducted with participants from UNHCR, NaCSA, PWJ, Camp Management
and WFP.

- The 26 hand dug wells were all treated with chlorine. The PWJ sanitation
team continues with the application of chemicals to the existing two
hundred and fifty-two family latrines in the camp and the excavation of
garbage pits and the closing of those that are full.

- Network Movement for Female Ministers and Parliamentarians held a
one-day sensitization meeting with the people of Bagbe Chiefdom on the
education of girl children.

Taiama Refugee Camp management

Under the overall management of Africa Concern, the following were
accomplished: food distribution for the month accomplished:

- Buckets were distributed to 1,000 refugees, blankets were distributed to
158 vulnerable mostly aged and physically handicapped;

- 117 aged refugees were supplied with used clothing and sanitary kits
were distributed to 2,015 women;

- The construction of a WFP warehouse by NRC is fast progressing;

- 279 houses have been completed and about to be occupied;

- The construction of GBV center is nearing completion and the
psychosocial center being constructed by CCF is also in progress.

EASTERN REGION

Security

The general security situation remains calm in the region. The RSLAF
troops are repositioning their troops along the border with the
14th-battalion RSLAF headquarters based in Zimmi gradually being moved to
Pujehun Town amongst other planned relocations of troops.

In Kono due to the increase in the crime rate, eight Police posts have
been erected within the Koidu Township in areas considered notorious for
committing crimes.

In Kailahun, a small group of LURD rebels raided the border village of
Saama in search of AFL soldiers early August. No deaths were reported but
three Sierra Leoneans were arrested and later released after the
intervention of the Sierra Leonean forces.

An illegal bridge constructed to Link Sierra Leone to Guinea

A team comprising Civil Affairs, UNOCHA, District Office Staff and
Paramount Chief of Lei Chiefdom led by MILOBS visited Lewah village in the
Lei Chiefdom in Kono District, to investigate allegation about the
fabrication of a hanging bridge over the Mele River between Sierra Leone
and Guinea. It was discovered that the bridge was constructed by the
Guineans and is currently used for smuggling of local foodstuff and goods
in and out of the country.

UNHCR provides SLP with one vehicle for police patrols

UNHCR has provided the SLP Police in Kenema with a vehicle to conduct
patrols in two of its Refugee camps - Tobanda and Largo.

Political

Refugee camp management elections held in Tobanda camp

Supervised by NaCSA, camp management, the police and UNHCR, the refugee
general elections were held in a peaceful atmosphere in Tobanda Camp.
However, some controversies erupted over the election results and NaCSA
has mandated the previous interim caretaker executive to temporarily rule
until the controversies are resolved.

Ministry of Mineral Resources revoked mining licenses in Kono

The mines division of the Ministry of Mineral Resources revoked 28 diamond
mining licenses of which 14 has been withdrawn from the holders, whilst
the other 14 are yet to surrender theirs to the Mines Office in Koidu. The
withdrawal of the licenses is due to their illegal mining within the Koidu
Township at a location commonly called Kaisambo. Government had band
mining within the township as it posed environmental hazard.

Ministry of Mines encourage diamond miners to acquire mining licenses in
Kono

As a way of encouraging miners to acquire licenses, the Ministry of Mines
distributed cheques to chiefdoms as a percentage on the sale of their
licenses in their various chiefdoms. The cheques were written in the name
of the Chiefdom Development Committees (CDCs), which implies that the
proceeds must be utilized for the general good of the communities. A total
of Le 286,147,322/00 was distributed amongst 6 chiefdoms.

UNOCHA facilitates DRCs work in the region

UNOCHA and UNAMSIL Civil Affairs supported DRC teams in visiting nine
Chiefdom Recovery Committees for discussing priority issues to be included
in the NRC report for Kenema District. The Kenema DRC Committee continues
to meet regularly every forthnight, with irregular attendance by the main
line ministries. UNOCHA also facilitated a meeting with DRC Chairman of
Pujehun for NRC planning purposes and participation in the Moyamba NRC
meeting. In Kono, OCHA in collaboration with UNAMSIL Civil Affairs is
facilitating the compilation of the DRC report. Also in Kailahun OCHA
continues to facilitate the DRC in their regular meetings to discuss their
progress and challenges in the recovery process.

Refugee/ returnee movement in Kailahun border area

In Kailahun, UNHCR received 115 self-settled refugees and four refugees
who transited through Guinea at the Kailahun Way Station. Following a
sensitization campaign recently carried out to promote the relocation of
refugees to UNHCR camps, 63 Liberian refugees in 32 families also arrived
on foot at the same Way Station. A flowchart indicating a weekly tentative
influx on to December 2003, and the current Camp and WS capacity to absorb
new refugee arrivals has been prepared by UNOCHA and UNHCR.

Health

UNFPA donates equipment and drugs for STDs and STIs in Largo camp

Delivery equipment and essential drugs for Sexually Transmitted Diseases
(STDs) and Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs) treatment was donated by
UNFPA for use by MERLIN at the Largo Camp clinic.

Roads

Deplorable road to Kailahun

The Kenema Kailahun roads, especially between Kailahun and Daru have
deteriorated considerably. Few commercial drivers brave this road, as it
is very risky. There is an ongoing effort by the community people to
strengthen the road foundation by spreading gravel but this is not making
much impact due to the rains.

Shelter

Bo/Pujehun Development Association (BPDA) aids Gondama Camp

The construction of individual booths has accelerated in Gondama following
the logistics support of BPDA. The camp presently has 1,152 refugees still
occupying communal booths. The renovation of 140 vulnerable booths in
Gerihun camp has also been completed.

Watsan

UNHCR aids Zimmi Way Station in water supply

UNHCR has placed a water tanker in Zimmi in order to address the present
constraints of providing water at the Way Station. The tanker will be
returned to Kailahun when the water-pumping machine used to refill the
bladder is being repaired.

Agriculture

CARE provides hunting nets and seed rice for refugees in Gerihun

CARE provided hunting nets for refugees in Gerihun camp and the Host
Community in order to control rodents from destroying their crops. They
also provided inland valley swamp seed rice for the remaining registered
refugee farmers in the camp. A day's workshop was conducted with 40 camp
and host community participants on the importance of environment
protection, such as planting and maintaining trees.

FAO gives cassava cutting to refugees in Jimmy Bagbo camp

A total of 750 farm families in Jimmi Bagbo were issued cassava cuttings
by FAO.

MSF-Belgium holds hygiene workshop in Gondama camp

MSF-B conducted a three-day training-of-trainers workshop for 30 hygiene
promoters in Gondama including refugees and host community members.

The Environmental Foundation for Africa (EFA) conducts workshop on
eco-stove in Gondama camp

The EFA conducted a three-day workshop in Gondama on the production of
eco-stoves, sustainable agriculture, income generation, and awareness
rising. A group was formed to monitor the implementation of activities and
further sensitize refugees. EFA also trained 14 individuals on the use of
GPS and GIS in order to support EFA staff in mapping farms and gardens
within the camp.

NORTHERN REGION

Security

The security in the region remains calm with regular border patrols by the
armed forces and a significant reduction in crime rates. The ongoing
UNAMSIL draw down process in the Makeni Town saw the withdrawal of NIBATT
16 this month, following the previous departure of NIBATT 15 from the
township. A company from BANBATT 8 at Magburaka took over the Makeni area
to cover Bombali and Koinadugu districts.

Political

Secessionist Sections

Two sections in the Leibesaygahun chiefdom, Bombali District have been
agitating for secession. The District Office has been investigating the
matter.

Inauguration of the National Social Security and Insurance Trust (NASSIT)
in Makeni

The Vice President inaugurated the NASSIT Office in Makeni, on 21 August.
During the inauguration ceremony curious community people and government
workers were informed about the benefits of the insurance trust. The Vice
President appealed to all workers to participate in the scheme so that
they would gain financial benefits and be protected during their old age.

NCDDR

The commission conducted a workshop on the theme, 'Information on
Employment Opportunities' for 175 youths enrolled in their program, on
Tuesday 19 August.

Restoration of civil authority and government activities

The Port Loko and Lunsar Magistrate Courts, rehabilitated by NaCSA in
partnership with UNDP, were handed over to the Port Loko and Lunsar
communities on 5 August. It is anticipated that these structures will
enhance the rule of law in these communities.

In another development, NaCSA in partnership with UNDP supported all
district offices in the region with computers, printers and accessories,
generators and HF radios. The support is to enhance the capacities of the
districts offices in the communication and implementation of official
tasks.

District Recovery Committee Activities

UNOCHA, in collaboration with UNAMSIL Civil Affairs provided technical
inputs to all DRCs in the region. Tonkolili District DRC started the
report writing for the pending NRC/DRC session on the 14 October.
Koinadugu DRC had the following suggestions at their last meeting:

   That an overall district oversight committee be instituted to monitor
   and evaluate implementing partner's quality and capacity of work done.

   That profile of humanitarian organizations be established to show what
   they do, where they do it, how much and of what quality.

   That the DRC in collaboration with UNOCHA and other partners should
   sensitize all CRCs on the DRC dispensation and on the roles and
   responsibilities of the CRC.

   That they should establish guidelines for CRC reporting.

   That they identify and prioritize strategic activities the CRCs could
   undertake, in preparation for the NSAP funding so that the district
   will benefit meaningfully and maximally.


In addition to conducting regular meetings, the Port Loko DRC developed an
action plan to be followed for the rest of the year, as well as project
proposals for implementation through the CRCs.

Agriculture

National Farmers Association distributes seed rice in Makeni

The National Farmers Association of Sierra Leone, Kambia District Branch,
supported by HPIC Funds, distributed 660 bushels of seed rice and 500
bushels of seed groundnut to farm families in seven chiefdoms in the
district.

NGOs distribute seed rice to farmers in Koinadugu District

NGOS operating in Koinadugu district distributed 4,592 bushels of seed
rice to farmers in all eleven chiefdoms in the district. Seed groundnuts,
vegetables, cassava cuttings and potato vines were also distributed to the
farmers. The Sierra Leone Red Cross Society (SLRCS), in support, conducted
trainings in basic agricultural techniques such as rice cultivation,
agro-forestry and lumbering.

Residents in the north express concern over smuggling of food items to
Guinea

Residents in the region have raised concerns over the smuggling of food
items into Guinea from chiefdoms lying along the border. This has impacted
by creating food scarcity especially in this rainy season usually the
hunger period.

Child protection

The Child Protection Committee members in Kabala have been very
instrumental in forming child welfare committees in the township and its
immediate environs. The committee members were trained for capacity
building for the task ahead of them.

Education

Over $3 million allotted for schools rehabilitation in Koinadugu District

During the Inter Agency Forum at Kabala on 5 August, the Inspector of
Schools announced that $3,320.788 has been allocated for the
rehabilitation of schools in Koinadugu district under the Rehabilitation
of Basic Education Project (REBEP) funding. The projects will target
schools in all eleven chiefdoms in the district and will cover the
rehabilitating work, provision of furniture and teacher training.

Health

UNICEF donates solar powered refrigerators to PHUs in the North

UNICEF donated solar-powered refrigerators to Primary Health Units in the
Kambia, Tonkolili and Bombali districts.

MSF-Belgium to withdraw from Kabala by December 2003

With the emergency phase gradually drawing to an end, MSF-B has reached an
agreement with MOHS to withdraw from the Kabala Hospital by the end of the
year. However, MSF-B will extend its operations to other parts of
Koinadugu district whilst MOHS will take over operations in the hospital.

Women's empowerment

CGG gives micro credit to women in Koinadugu District

The local NGO, Campaign For Good Governance (CGG) supported thirty women
in Koinadugu district through a micro-credit scheme. The NGO operates a
soft loan scheme payable within three months geared towards empowerment of
women.

Roads

UNDP on roads rehabilitation in Kambia District

The UNDP funded road rehabilitation program is ongoing in Tonko Limba and
Magbema chiefdoms in Kambia district.

Information

UNOCHA collates District Directory for Makeni

UNOCHA - North collected information for a district directory for all
humanitarian organizations in Makeni. This has been collated and sent for
the attention of the National Field Coordinator. Finalized document would
be circulated to partners in September.


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