WFP Emergency Report
Issued weekly by the United Nations World Food Programme
Report No. 13 / 2006 - Date 31 March 2006


This report includes:

(A) Highlights
(B) Middle East,Central Asia and Eastern Europe: (1) Algeria
    (2) Occupied Palestinian Territories (3) Pakistan
(C) East & Central Africa: (1) Burundi (2) Congo (3) Congo, DR
    (4) Ethiopia (5) Kenya (6) Rwanda (7) Somalia (8) Sudan (9) Tanzania
    (10) Uganda
(D) West Africa: (1) Cote d'Ivoire (2) Liberia
(E) Southern Africa: (1) Angola (2) Botswana (3) Lesotho (4) Malawi
    (5) Mozambique (6) Swaziland (7) Zambia (8) Zimbabwe
(F) Asia: (1) Myanmar (2) Philippines
(G) Latin America and Caribbean: (1) Bolivia (2) Colombia (3) Cuba
   (4) Guatemala (5) Nicaragua (6) Peru



(A) Highlights

(a)  In Pakistan, despite food movement being temporarily disrupted due
to rain and landslides, WFP reached an estimated 923,000 people with
14,817 tons in March.

(b)  Due to generally average and well distributed rainfall, the 2005/06
harvest in most of the southern Africa region is expected to be
significantly larger than the previous agricultural season. However,
parts of Angola, Malawi, Mozambique, Swaziland and eastern Zimbabwe
experienced dry spells during the beginning of the year, which
threatened crop development.

(c)  In Sudan, between 1 and 26 March, WFP dispatched a total of 16,241
tons of mixed food from logistical hubs to the Darfur region realising
78 percent of the dispatch plan for March.

(d)  In March, WFP Kenya dispatched food for 3.5 million beneficiaries
in 25 districts including 535,000 school children. The distribution for
March is ongoing and is expected to be completed in the first week of
April.

(e)  The number of beneficiaries requiring relief assistance in Ethiopia
stands at 2.6 million countrywide: 1.5 million are in the Somali Region
and 155,000 are in Borena zone of Oromiya region. Of these, WFP expects
to cover 1.7 million people but can cover more if necessary.

(f)  A total of 8,700 tons have been distributed to 520,000
beneficiaries to date in Somalia. The first round of food distribution
to 1.1 million drought-affected people should be completed by early
April 2006.



(B) Middle East,Central Asia and Eastern Europe: (1) Algeria (2)
Occupied Palestinian Territories (3) Pakistan

(1) Algeria

(a)  Food distribution for the month of March was completed on the 23rd
of March. Some 35,000 tons extra have been made available to cover
additional needs, as a result of the torrential rains which destroyed
large part of the infrastructure in four out of the five camps more than
a months ago..

(b)  WFP and HCR organized a donor mission to the refugee camps south of
Tindouf on 15-18 March, which was attended by about 20 representatives
from donors and Cooperation Partners. WFP visited the three camps:
Smara, and Dakhla camps.  Two camps were severely damaged by the
February floods; people have however already started reconstruction.

(c)  The food supply situation remains very fragile with shortfalls in
wheat flour and sugar foreseen for the month of April, if further
pledges are not confirmed in the next two weeks. Some 6000 tons of
security stock could be drawn down from this stock as loan, which would
prevent pipeline breakdown next month.


(2) Occupied Palestinian Territories

(a)  The Security situation reached an all-time low in March in oPt.
Hostilities in Jericho sparked an unprecedented surge of kidnappings in
the West Bank and Gaza Strip (including one ICRC staff member and a
number of NGO staff) and attacks against property of the International
Community. Field operations were temporarily suspended over 13-14th
March owing to security concerns.

(b)  The situation has since calmed and operations have returned with a
heightened warning for American and British citizens.  The reaction to
the Jericho incident shows how volatile the current situation is; this
is still a very high risk anywhere outside Gaza City.  The Gaza Security
Management Team has stated that Gaza is likely to stay at phase 4 up to
the end of 2006. The West Bank security situation remained volatile.

(c)  The security situation has affected WFP Country Programmes in Gaza
Strip. Notably the head of MOA office in middle Gaza was kidnapped for
several hours on 27th March. Whilst MOA confirmed that this was not
related to WFP food distribution, MOA was requested to postpone future
distribution in the Middle area until there are guarantees for the
safety of both WFP and MOA staff. CHF are realigning their programme
avoiding all contacts with the municipalities in line with new USAID
regulations.

(d)  Successive closures since the start of the year have led to
widespread food shortages and price increases with a high impact on the
vulnerable Gaza population. The shortage reached a peak over the weekend
of 17-19 March when the few bakeries that remained open introduced
rationing to people waiting in long queues outside their premises. The
access restrictions severely limited WFP and UNRWAs ability to reach the
most food insecure population as both agencies rely on the depleted
Palestinian mills for Wheat Flour. WFP met with all authorities
concerned. WFP also issued a statement to the press and met with members
of the donor community to advocate for facilitated passage of food to
Gaza.

(e)  As of 21st March, Israel agreed to re-open Karni crossings in a
deal closely monitored by the US Mission. In addition WFP is now in the
process of preparing a shipment of 1,000 tons of Wheat Flour to enter
Gaza Strip through the complementary entry corridor of Kerem Shalom
through Egypt in the coming days. Food shortages in Gaza are by no means
over and it is essential that both entry corridors (Karni and Kerem
Shalom) remain open so that essential food aid shipments to Gaza may
continue.

(f)  Curfews and closures continue to impede Palestinian access to
work.. The West Bank and Gaza Strip were closed to workers and traders
from 12th March over Purim and the Israeli elections, workers and
traders with valid permits were not allowed access to Israel and East
Jerusalem for 60 percent of the reporting period despite reassurances.
There were curfews affecting Nablus, Jericho and Qalqilia throughout the
reporting period - in the last week (15-21st March) alone there were 38
hours of curfew reported.

(g)  Karni and Kerem Shalom (commercial crossings to Gaza Strip) have
been open for nearly one week (21 - 27 March), although not at full
capacity, allowing much needed basic food supplies to enter the Gaza
Strip. Karni closed on 28 March because of heightened Israeli security
concerns over the Knesset elections. Over the course of the last week, a
serious improvement in incoming commercial flow through Karni was noted.
However the level of food stocks in still low. The two WFP Gaza based
mills under WFP contract have currently in stock 570Mt meanwhile they
still have outstanding orders for 8,100 Mt. As of 29 March, Karni
crossing had been closed for 46 days in 2006 or 53% of the year.

(h)  UN National Staff remain currently unable to cross through Erez
crossing owing to security procedures still under discussion; UN
national staff in the West Bank also faced increased access
restrictions.

(i)  The new Hamas Government has been sworn in; whilst the US and
Canadian positions are clear other donors are still hesitating with a
clear statement regarding their policy. The financial situation of the
PNA remains critical and the 150,000 employees remain uncertain of
future payments.

(j)  On the Israeli side the new centrist party, Kadima, formed by Ariel
Sharon, came out as leader in the Israeli elections with 28 seats in the
Knesset (of 120), much less than the polls predicted; Labour came second
with 20 seats and Shas (the Orthodox Jewish party) third with 13 seats.
The president will now assign a Prime Minister who will have 60 days to
form his coalition of 61 seats.

(k)  The Palestinian Ministry of Agriculture officially confirmed (22
March 2006) the presence of H5N1 strain of the Avian Influenza virus in
bird samples taken from a poultry farms in Juhr Al Deik (Gaza city) and
in Rafah. Culling is underway under the responsibility of the Ministry
of Agriculture.  No human cases have been confirmed so far. The outbreak
threatens over 24 million poultry in the Gaza Strip. This in turn
affects the livelihoods of farmers and labourers in the culled farms,
some 25,000 rural families (150,000 individuals, owners of small shops,
poor consumers.

(l)  Under the Protracted Relief and Recovery Operation (PRRO) 10387,
basic food needs of both the Social Hardship Cases (SHC) and New Poor
(NP) will be met through distribution of monthly family rations. While
the SHC will receive relief food as part of the MSA programme, 'new
poor' beneficiaries will receive food through participation in food for
work (FFW) and food for training (FFT) activities implemented through
CRS, CHF and MOA. The most vulnerable individuals living in institutions
will be provided a daily food ration through the MSA in Gaza Strip and
CRS in West Bank.

(m)  In West Bank, the third distribution cycle for the SHC started
throughout the West Bank. A total of 10,302 chronically poor households
received 1185 tons of mixed food commodities throughout the West Bank
during the reporting period under the November -December allocation.

(n)  In Gaza Strip, a total of 666 tons of WFP food was distributed to
5818 HH of SHCs through MSA in Gaza and Northern Gaza (January/ February
allocation).

(o)  West Bank cooperating partners started food distribution in the
Northern governorates, as part of the second phase of the FFW/T project
(January-March).During reporting period a total of 22,124 new poor
families received a total of 2,481 tons of mixed food commodities
through CRS, CHF, MoA, in the West Bank governorates.

(p)  In Gaza Strip 72 tons of food was distributed to 3733 farmer's
households through the MOA for the Jan-Feb allocation. 246 tons of food
was distributed to 36,612 unemployed workers households through CHF
(Nov/Dec and part of Jan allocation). CHF have adjusted their programme
to work more closely with NGOs in place of the municipalities in line
with new USAID regulations. CHF is also targeting more women in the
FFW/T.

(q)  Port Ashdod arrivals include: 652 tons of wheat flour, oil and
chickpeas were delivered to Country Programme warehouses in Gaza Strip,
4557 tons of mixed commodities were delivered to CPs in West Bank. WFP
managed to deliver total of 16 containers to Gaza through Karni on 22
and 23 March. Logistics finished the assessment of Kerem Shalom terminal
assessment, preparation for test shipment of 1,000 tons of wheat flour
was under way.

(r)  VAM and UNICEF have been working on creating maps indicating needs
and UNICEF's response to vulnerability by mapping specific areas. Two
maps are being in a draft format. WFP logo will be added to reflect the
joint work. These maps will be used by UNICEF for communication purpose
to donors. Bilateral meetings continue with UNRWA and FAO on a technical
level.


(3) Pakistan

(a)  During the reporting period (22-28 March), the general situation in
Pakistan was calm. However, the continued insurgency in North Waziristan
and Balochistan was of growing concern. The International UN staff
continued to be escorted in North West Frontier province (NWFP) on all
road missions.

(b)  The snowline has receded significantly since its maximum on 19
January and no significant further snowfall is forecast at this moment.
However, heavy rains continued to hamper relief efforts in some areas
and have caused fatal landslides for the local population and UN staff.
Several roads remain blocked. Road access is expected to remain limited
for some time due to ongoing landslides. According to the International
Landslide Center/Landslide Observatory Open File Report, the snow melt
could result in further landslides in April, with a second round of
landslides during the July monsoon season. It could take several months
to repair and open primary and secondary roads.

(c)  Despite food movement being temporarily disrupted due to
countrywide strikes and demonstrations in early March and the fact that
rain and landslides continue to affect food deliveries, WFP has reached
an estimated 923,000 people with 14,817 tons in March.

(d)  WFP Executive Board recently cleared the two-year Protracted Relief
and Recovery Operation (PRRO), which will commence on the 1st of April.
About 670,000 homeless people will be provided with food as they return
to rebuild community infrastructure. School Feeding will maintain
attendance and address short-term hunger for 450,000 children. WFP will
work with UNOPS in road clearance and related areas. These interventions
will be undertaken in remote villages where food production, access to
markets, employment and credit facilities will be constrained until
basic infrastructures and trade can be restored. The operational
requirement for the PRRO is $US 67,849,078 or 113,648 tons of food.

(e)  In the nine targeted Union Councils (UCs) of Bagh, food
distribution for the month of March was completed. A total of 2,593 tons
of mixed food was distributed to 163,133 persons. Thus, this marks the
end of EMOP distribution which is to be followed by WFP's recovery
programme in the PRRO starting on the 1st of April. Food distribution in
the remaining 11 camps (out of 15) have resumed after disruption in
distribution due to rain. Some 42 percent comprising of 3,626 persons
have already received their ration. The distribution is expected to be
completed by the 31st of March for the remaining 5,000 persons. As per
official announcement of the Deputy Commissioner, Bagh camp inhabitants
are to return to their place of origin by the 31st of March. However,
there has been some spontaneous movement of returnees from the camps.
The bulk of the population as reported is preparing to avail assistance
from UN agencies with regard to transport. UNHCR has started registering
the intending returnees. The movement sponsored by UN agencies is likely
to start by April 1 2006.

(f)  WFP has distributed to a total of 43,419 beneficiaries in all
tented camps in Ghari Habibullah district on UNHCR/Regional Relief
Commissioner list. Total caseload for School Feeding program is 30,163
students. The caseload is divided in two categories, caseload of 22,181
is regular students of government schools and 7,982 are the students in
UNICEF supported tented schools. Camp feeding was completed for March
during the previous reporting period. Food distribution to Kaghan Union
Council was completed for March during the reporting period. 123 tons of
food was dropped by helicopter in Muzaffarabad. Gari Habibullah Camp
will close next week.

(g)  During the reporting period, 757 tons of mixed food commodities
were distributed to 44,460 beneficiaries in Battagram (Allai), Mansehra
(Kala Dhaka) Shangla and planned camps. 582 tons of mixed food
commodities from Battagram, 300 tons from Chattarplain and 7 tons from
Abbotabad warehouses were dispatched to Allai, Palas, Dassu, Kala Dhaka,
Alpuri, Besham, Chakisar and planned camps. Dispatches for March
distribution continues with 90 percent done in Battagram and completion
in Chattarplain. Rub Halls in Battagram being emptied in preparation for
closure. Planned repatriation continued from Camps during the reporting
period. WFP has already provided March ration to all the camps. General
Food Distribution for 32,000 beneficiaries of Besham and Chakisar Tehsil
continued. 100 tons of UNIMIX (fortified wheat flour) has been delivered
to different distribution points.

(h)  Bad weather conditions continued to disrupt road and air deliveries
to the valleys. Preparations for the PRRO ongoing. Consultative meetings
and joint assessments being conducted with potential Government, UN and
NGO partners. WFP held another consultative meeting with the AJK
Government on the way forward for the PRRO. All the programme components
within the PRRO were discussed. A follow-up meeting was held with the
Education Secretary on 28 March. An agreement on the implementation of
School Feeding was reached. Dispatches to all but 3 Extended Delivery
Points were completed. Space for both Food and Non Food Items shipped
and procured for the PRRO has been allocated in the warehouse.

(i)  The Emergency Operation (EMOP) is resourced 77 percent against the
appeal and the PRRO is currently resourced 6.7 percent against the
appeal of $US 67,849,078.

(j)  The deliveries from the hubs to extended delivery points from 20-26
March 2006 amount to 1,807 tons, out of which 482 tons were delivered by
air.

(k)  Currently, UNHAS funding is due to run out 31 March. The current
shortfall of the project is US$18 million, taking into account the
implementation of cost recovery through passenger payments and a large
reduction in flights. Due to the lack of donor funding and government
dismissal, a rapid reduction of assets deployed has taken place and
UNHAS is now down from 28 to 13 helicopters. All UNHAS helicopters will
stop operations on the 31 March. However 4 MI8s operating through UNHAS
as an in kind donation will continue their operations until 4th of May.
Since the start of the air operations, UNHAS has airlifted 20,262 tons
of Food Items, 6,614 tons of Non-Food Items and 31,030 passengers.



(C) East & Central Africa: (1) Burundi (2) Congo (3) Congo, DR (4)
Ethiopia (5) Kenya (6) Rwanda (7) Somalia (8) Sudan (9) Tanzania (10)
Uganda

(1) Burundi

(a)  The country's remaining rebel group, the Forces Nationales de
Liberation (FNL) led by Agathon Rwasa, announced on 11 March in the
Tanzanian capital Dar es Salaam that they are ready to hold
unconditional peace negotiations with the Burundian Government.
Previously, the FNL had declined to hold talks with the government,
arguing that it had not taken part in general elections held in the
country in 2005. It was only after preliminary contacts by the Tanzanian
Government that the movement recently agreed to unconditional peace
talks.

(b)  Burundi's main opposition Hutu party FRODEBU said on Saturday it
was withdrawing from a national unity government, causing a blow to
reconciliation efforts after the civil war but unlikely to disrupt the
ruling coalition. FRODEBU accused President Pierre Nkurunziza's
coalition of failing to abide by a constitutional agreement on power
sharing and failing to promote democracy. FRODEBU's main complaint is
that the cabinet is dominated by ministers from the President's party,
the former rebel Forces for the Defence of Democracy (FDD). Although the
President gave Hutus 60 percent of cabinet posts and 40 percent to
Tutsis as stipulated in the constitution, FRODEBU says most of the Hutu
posts went to FDD members.

(c)  Between 20 and 26 March, WFP distributed 1,350 tons of food aid to
265,866 beneficiaries. This will further increase as the new round of
targeted food distributions is gearing up. The intervention plan remains
to gear up assistance to approximately 10,500 tons of food to be
distributed on a monthly basis in April, May and June, just before the
harvest when the food shortage will be at its peak.

(d)  Preliminary data extracted from the nutritional surveys conducted
by NGOs in drought-affected areas indicate a situation precarious but
not alarming. The main concern of the Country Office remains the
negative coping mechanisms adopted at the household level in order to
face food shortages. Food aid will contribute to cushioning the extended
lean season until the next harvest in June/July.

(e)  In regard to the alleged population displacements "provoked by
hunger" from Burundi to Tanzania, it should be noted that seasonal
migrations in search for work (Burundian manpower being "cheaper" than
Tanzanian and Rwandan) take place every year during the lean season.
This movement is more important this year as the country is facing an
extended lean season. However, it seems that a portion of this migrating
population is going directly to UNHCR camps on the other side of the
border in Tanzania in search for regular/monthly food rations.
Nutritional data such as severe malnutrition and mortality rates in the
areas of origin of these migrants, mainly from Ruyigi province, are
below crisis rates. This migration to refugee camps is one of the
negative coping mechanisms. WFP plans to gear up its targeted
distributions level in these areas.

(f)  As of 27 March 2006, WFP in-country stocks stood at 5,977 tons of
food with an additional 324 tons still to be offloaded from trucks and
barges. The volume of food en route to Burundi, mainly through regional
purchase, is important. However, recent indication that regional
purchases in Uganda could be jeopardized due to limited food stocks in
the region and increased prices could delay some arrivals.


(2) Congo

(a)  On 21 March, a storm damaged houses and removed roofs of around
hundred family shelters in Kindamba in the Pool region. At the request
of the government, WFP assisted these families by providing a four-day
ration, consisting of rice, vegetable oil, beans and salt.


(3) Congo, DR

(a)  Access to beneficiaries significantly decreased in the Ituri
district due to the deterioration of the security situation.
Humanitarian workers were advised not to use two major transport
corridors, Bunia-Bogoro-Kagaba-Aveba-Tchomia and the
Bunia-Katoto-Blukwa. The large majority of food insecure Internally
Displaced Persons (IDPs) and returnees are accessible only through these
routes. Meanwhile, the Bunia-Marabo-Komanda-Beni corridor can be used
only under military escort.

(b)  Clashes between Government troops and Mai Mai militia and
subsequent significant displacement on the
Kiwanja-Kibirizi-Rwindi-Kanyabayonga were reported in the Rutshuru
territory (North Kivu province)

(c)  In the South Kivu province, the caseload of IDPs on the
Kalehe-Minova axis has increased from 5,718 households last week to
6,011; the IDPs are looking for shelter to escape actions by Forces
Democratique pour la Liberation du Rwanda (FDLR) and government troops.
An increase in the number of IDPs has also been reported in Burhinyi,
however the exact figure is not known yet. A large concentration of IDPs
in Mulamba has been reported to the IDPs committee, which is planning an
inter-agency mission to assess the situation.

(d)  In the Katanga province, 81 tons of food were distributed to 18,000
IDPs in Nyonga. An additional 40 tons will be provided to the IDPs once
a railway engine will be availed to transport the food to Bukama
station. In Mutabi & Dubie, WFP's Cooperating Partner started the food
distribution to 13,000 IDPs.

(e)  In the Ituri district, 3,200 displaced households fleeing
confrontations between government troops and militias were identified by
German Agro Action in Kotoni, some 15 km from Bunia. They were provided
with 135 tons of WFP food to cover their food needs for one month.

(f)  In the North Kivu province WFP's Cooperating Partner, the Norwegian
Refugee Council (NRC), distributed 270 tons of various food commodities
to 33,000 IDPs. In the coming weeks, WFP and NRC are planning food
distribution to an additional caseload of 25,000 IDPs settled in
Vuhovi..

(g)  In the South Kivu province, 156 tons of food were distributed,
targeting mostly IDPs, school feeding programmes and nutritional
programmes. An additional 25 tons were released to assist 501 returnees
from Tanzania.

(h)  In the Maniema province, WFP's Cooperating Partners distributed 11
tons to 1,700 beneficiaries who were mostly malnourished children and
HIV/AIDS infected people.


(4) Ethiopia

(a)  Monitoring of the belg rain performance (short rainy season)
continues, and is so far reportedly poor in northern part of the
country. Belg rains were delayed by 2 weeks from the normal onset in
south Tigray (the only belg growing zone in the region) whereas in
Amhara region, belg crop growing areas started receiving rains up to two
months late compared to normal years. Consequently, planted areas have
significantly decreased, with only 5-42 percent of belg areas reportedly
planted so far. Planted crops are still at a very early stage compared
to what is expected at this time in a "normal" year. In northern parts
of Somali region, about 1-5 days of rainfall were observed during the
second week of March. Moreover Moyale district of Liben zone has
received good rains from 22-25 March, while Garbo district of Fik zone
reportedly received some average rains during the 3rd dekad of March.
Galadid and Shekosh districts of Korahe zone have received light showers
during the 1st dekad of March. The performance of belg rains is rated as
good in Southern Nations, Nationalities and Peoples Region (SNNPR) and
in the Hararge area of Oromiya region.

(b)  In Borena zone of Oromiya region, a government-led joint emergency
assessment mission has been completed and is now finalizing its
findings. The main objective of this mission was to conduct a rapid
assessment of the current food security situation of the zone and to
review the beneficiary figures that were set during last year's main
emergency assessment, conducted in December. The preliminary findings of
the mission indicate that the southern parts of the zone (Moyale, Miyo,
partly Dire, Teltele and Arero districts) are facing serious drought
conditions, especially with regards to water supply and pasture
availability. Massive cattle death was confirmed by the mission. Recent
rains received in these districts were not sufficient for regeneration
of pasture and water and will have to increase in amount and
distribution if improvements of the current stress situation can be
expected. In the northern parts of the zone (Dugda-dawa, Bole-Hora,
Gelana, Abaya, partly Teltele, Arero, Yabello and Dire districts)
conditions were found to be relatively better. These areas received
unseasonable rains in the middle of February and as a consequence browse
has rejuvenated and some water points have been replenished. The final
decision on revised beneficiary figures for Borena zone is expected
shortly.

(c)  The number of beneficiaries requiring assistance stands at 2.6
million for relief countrywide: 1.5 million are in the Somali Region and
155,000 are in Borena zone of Oromiya region. Of these, WFP expects to
cover 1.7 million people but can cover more if necessary through the
contingency mechanism pre-approved in WFP's Protracted Relief and
Recovery Operation 10362.0 "Enabling livelihood protection and
promotion". In addition, between 7.2 and 8.3 million chronically
food-insecure people are to be covered under food or cash transfer of
the Productive Safety Net Programme in 2006. The beneficiaries in the
drought-affected southeastern parts of the country are receiving both a
general ration and blanket supplementary feeding. Targeted supplementary
feeding is also operational in parts of both Somali region and Borena
zone: nutrition screening undertaken by UNICEF in collaboration with the
regional Bureau of Health is completed, food dispatches have started and
WFP is planning to start the new round of distributions shortly.
Dispatches of relief food are continuing, with 32 percent of the food
allocated in February transported to Somali region and 84 percent to
Oromiya region (with Borena's dispatches having reached 67 percent). WFP
field monitors report that most of the food allocated in January has
arrived at final distribution points and has been distributed.

(d)  The national relief food pipeline is covered only to June, when
cereals will run out unless new contributions are confirmed.
Requirements in pastoral areas have been formally assessed only to June,
and reassessments in June/July will confirm the needs for the second
half of the year; this follows normal practice in Ethiopia. However,
requirements for July-December can increase substantially compared to
the requirements issued in January for the annual humanitarian appeal.
Many of the beneficiaries currently receiving assistance are likely to
require a continuation of assistance during July-December, which will
increase the relief food needs and other requirements substantially.
Donors are urged to confirm contributions currently under negotiation
and to pledge new contributions to cover anticipated humanitarian needs
in the second half of the year.


(5) Kenya

(a)  On 29 March, a WFP driver who was on her way to Kakuma refugee
camps was caught in a heavy clash between Kenya security personnel and
heavily armed cattle raiders along the Kitale-Lodwar road in
north-western Kenya. Fortunately the staff member was not injured.
Tension is very high in that area. Security forces are still pursuing
the bandits and conducting patrols to avert more attacks.  A travel
advisory was enforced and will remain in force until UN confirms with
the Kenya security forces that the area is safe for staff to travel. The
road serves WFP's drought emergency operation, school feeding and Kakuma
refugee camps in Turkana District, as well as the south Sudan operation.

(b)  In February/early March, WFP scaled up its operation and reached
2..4 million people in 17 districts; in March, WFP dispatched food for
3.5 million beneficiaries in 25 districts including 535,000 school
children.. The distribution for March is ongoing and is expected to be
completed in the first week of April.

(c)  The food security situation in the North-Eastern districts, and
particularly Mandera and Wajir, is deteriorating. There are continued
reports of livestock deaths, and in addition to the loss of cattle there
are increasingly frequent reports of camel deaths. Recent nutrition
surveys indicate 21 to 27 percent malnutrition rates among children in
some parts of Mandera District.  WFP is expanding its assistance to
Mandera and Wajir in order to provide food aid for 80 percent of the
population of all the rural divisions for the month of March.

(d)  WFP will use a US$ 3.6 million grant from UN's Central Emergency
Response Fund to provide much needed 5,300 tons of fortified food for
the most vulnerable populations in nine pastoralist districts from April
through June. The fortified food (corn-soya blend) will be distributed
to households with children under five and/or pregnant and lactating
women.. Out of a total of 1.4 million beneficiaries in the worst hit
districts (Garissa, Isiolo, Mandera, Marsabit, Moyale, Samburu, Tana
River, Turkana and Wajir), almost 400,000 women and children will
receive the fortified food, purchased in Kenya.

(e)  As at end March, the WFP Emergency Operation has received US$ 78
million or some 35 percent of the requirements. WFP urgently needs
further pledges, especially cash, to keep providing cereals and to
restore fortified food, vegetable oil and pulses to the full ration. The
remaining shortfall for the March 2006 to February 2007 operational
requirements is US$147 million.

(f)  Substantial rainfall occurred in the western, southern and coastal
areas of the country from the last week of February through the third
week of March.  The western parts of the country in particular, received
heavy rains during the entire period and flooding has occurred in some
districts along the lakeshore. The rainfall spread to other areas such
as parts of southeastern lowlands, including the drought affected
Kajiado and Narok Districts. Some showers were also reported in the
drought-affected Marsabit, Moyale, Baringo, Mwingi, Kitui, Isiolo,
Garissa and Turkana districts.  However, the amount and distribution is
insufficient to significantly alleviate current drought conditions.

(g)  High livestock mortality is being experienced in most of the arid
districts, and it is estimated that more than 50 percent of the cattle,
30 percent of sheep and goats, and 15 percent of camels have died due to
lack of water and forage. Large areas are littered with dead animals.
This will pose health hazard when the rains starts.


(6) Rwanda

(a)  Sorghum has emerged in some parts of Bugesera district, especially
in Nyamata due to recent rains. However, in Gashora and Ngenda, the
sorghum planted in January has wilted and been replaced by beans.

(b)  According to the Ruhuha Catholic Parish, over 1,300 families from
Ngenda, Bugesera district, migrated either to Burundi or to other
provinces of Rwanda and 27 people died of hunger. Some children have
stayed behind while their parents migrated in search of food. Schools in
Bugesera remain open thanks to the WFP school-feeding assistance.

(c)  The joint Comprehensive Food Security and Vulnerability Assessment
conducted in the whole country by WFP (Vulnerability Analysis and
Mapping), in collaboration with FEWSNET, the Government Rwanda and NGO
partners continues. Results are expected in late April/early May.

(d)  The number of asylum seekers in Nkamira remains at 1,298 and the
population in the other camps is stable with the number of Congolese
refugees currently totalling 41,002.  The Burundian refugee population
at Nyamure and Kigeme camps remained the same at 2,569.

(e)  Around 413 tons of mixed commodities were distributed to 22,782
refugees in Gihembe, Nyabiheke and Kigeme camps as a one-month ration. A
total of 153 returnees from DRC passed through Nkamira and Nyagatare
transit camps and received a three-month ration before being transferred
to their home communities.


(7) Somalia

(a)  To date a total of 8,700 tons have been distributed to 520,000
beneficiaries as drought response. In addition, 8,500 tons of food have
been transported from WFP warehouses in Somalia for imminent
distributions. It is expected that the first round of food distribution
to 1.1 million drought-affected people will be completed by early April
2006. As part of the emergency relief interventions, 2,115 tons is being
distributed through Food-for-Work and selective feeding activities to
about 120,000 beneficiaries under Bakool region.

(b)  In general, emergency distributions are going as per plan and
efforts are ongoing to complete distributions as early as possible.
Positive feedback from various locations has been received on the
successful food aid distribution. Experiences on the food distribution
modality were shared with elders from Afmadow district of Lower Juba
region.

(c)  Field level data collection has been completed for the inter-agency
nutrition assessment of Gedo Region conducted by Food Security Analysis
Unit (FSAU), WFP, UNICEF and Gedo Health Consortium. The report is
expected to be available by mid April. Another inter-agency nutrition
assessment mission is planned for the Middle Juba region from 1 to 13
April 2006. In addition, WFP is discussing with FSAU to undertake
nutrition assessment for Afmadow district of Lower Juba region.

(d)  The media mission to Bay and Bakool regions, organized in
consultation with the WFP Regional Information Office, is now in the
field to observe the overall drought situation in South Somalia,
including the ongoing WFP emergency food distribution.

(e)  Available WFP food stocks and confirmed new funding amount to
82,000 tons, leaving a shortfall of some 98,000 tons compared to the
total 180,000 tons requirement in 2006.


(8) Sudan

(a)  During the reporting period (12-28 March), reinforcements of rebel
and government forces were reported in the east of North Darfur with
clashes in Haskanita that resulted in further instability and localised
displacement of resident populations. The United Nations Department of
Safety and Security (UNDSS) is in the process of confirming the impact
of the reports in advance of an anticipated humanitarian assessment.
Further clashes were reported during the fortnight between SLA factions
in Korma, rural El Fasher which led to the suspension of food
distributions in the area. A subsequent security assessment conducted on
25 March by UNDSS and WFP Security recommended that the vicinity remain
'no-go' to UN staff.

(b)  Armed clashes were reported in the Abu Soroug area to the north of
El Geneina in West Darfur on two occasions during the reporting period,
between villagers and armed militia, which resulted in at least eight
fatalities. A subsequent security assessment carried out by WFP Security
and UNDSS on the El Geneina - Kondobe - Bir Dageeg - Abu Soroug road
concluded the stretch to be open to humanitarian access. A similar
mission is scheduled to be undertaken in Arara, Beida and Kongo Haraza
by the end of the month.

(c)  In Jebel Marra, the African Union confirmed attacks by armed
militia on the villages of Daya, Tibon and Sorrong resulting in heavy
fighting, looting (including a GOAL clinic) and numerous fatalities. A
joint UNDSS/OCHA team, acting as part of a response to reports of a
meningitis outbreak in Kelling, was stopped by armed men in Guildo,
Jebel Marra. Personal effects and cash were taken, although no
casualties reported.

(d)  On 21 March, armed men forced entry into an INGO compound in El
Geneina and took cash and communications equipment. No injuries were
reported.

(e)  Tensions remained high in the Gereida locality in south Darfur
during the reporting period with reports of violent demonstrations at
the African Union camp resulting in property being damaged and stolen.
Militia attacks on villages in the vicinity continued to be reported,
resulting in a number of deaths of soldiers and civilians, livestock
being looted and continued displacements to Gereida town, which is
estimated to be currently in excess of 90,000 IDPs.

(f)  In Western Equatoria, On 19 March, an armed group attacked the
UNMIS compound in Yambio town, injuring two UNMIS Peace Keepers. The
gunmen were reported to have attacked at least two other NGO compounds.
UN and NGO staff were relocated. Subsequently humanitarian activities
have been suspended until further notice.

(g)  The general security situation in Eastern Equatoria remained calm
with no major security incidents reported during the reporting period.
However, most parts of Torit, Budi and Lafon counties are still under UN
security Phase Four due to suspected Lord Resistance Army's activities.
Furthermore, road travel between Khiyala, Torit and Juba still requires
armed escort.. WFP is requesting UNMIS escort for food distribution
teams to thirteen locations in Torit and Lafon counties for the period
late March-mid April 2006.

(h)  A tense security situation was reported in Old Fangak, Pochalla and
Pibor counties in Jonglei following political disputes. The tension
resulted in relocation of two WFP staff who were waiting for barge
deliveries in Old Fangak on 19 March. As a result, WFP food
distributions in Gumruk and Pochalla were suspended.

(i)  A WFP security team visited Bor and Mabior to discuss the security
situation there with local authorities. The team reported an improved
security situation.

(j)  In Bahr El Ghazal, the general security situation in Wau was
reportedly calm except for some minor security incidents that occurred
at the new site of WFP warehouses. An unidentified group of people threw
stones at WFP security guards and a failed theft attempt took place
during the reporting period. Local authorities are currently
investigating both incidents.

(k)  The general security situation was reportedly calm in most
locations in Unity State. However, an incident took place in Pakur
village, located 105 km from Bentiu, where one soldier was killed. In
addition, fire remains a security threat in Bentiu town as more than 25
families have become displaced when their houses were burnt down.

(l)  A conflict erupted between the Government of South Sudan and
civilians and resulted in suspension of WFP's activities in Mirmir, Koch
and Rubkual. The cause of the conflict could not be immediately
established, but is under investigation by the UN police and UNMIS Peace
Keepers.

(m)  The overall security situation in Upper Nile was calm except for
reported skirmishes between Arab nomads and Shilluks in Ogot resulting
in seven deaths. In Doma, seven other deaths were reported as a result
of fighting between the Nuer Lou and Dinka over cattle raiding.
Subsequently, the UN Security raised Nasir area to UN Security Phase
Four as of 15 March.

(n)  A group of armed residents forced a WFP food distribution team in
Zurzur distribution center, along Meluth area, to release an additional
7 tons of food commodities. They claimed inadequacy of the food
allocated by WFP to meet the increased needs of the vulnerable residents
and returnees. WFP informed local authorities of the incident and
highlighted the necessity of providing protection to WFP staff during
distributions in Zurzur.

(o)  On 19 March, a Shilluk policemen shot at a GOAL vehicle when the
driver did not stop at the Shiluk police post in Yumo village.
Consequently, two staff members were seriously injured and evacuated to
Khartoum to receive medical treatment. The Sudan Relief and
Rehabilitation Commission and humanitarian agencies, including WFP, in
Malakal formed a committee to investigate the incident.

(p)  According to UNMIS and UNDSS, the security situation in Mapear was
declared safe for humanitarian operations. In early March, an inter-clan
conflict between Agar Dinka and Luach Dinka, over grazing land, resulted
in several fatalities, loss of assets and displacement. WFP will provide
food assistance to the affected population.

(q)  Movement restrictions continued to hinder UN humanitarian
activities in Kassala. Restricted movement is caused by lack of
compliance to the UNMIS' Status of Forces Agreement (SOFA) by local
authorities, as local travel permits are still being requested from UN
Agencies. UNMIS and OCHA met with the Wali of Kassala who insisted on
requesting travel permits as long as it is a requirement by authorities
in Khartoum.

(r)  The overall security situation in Blue Nile remained calm during
the reporting period. The clashes that were reported during the
fortnight between the SPLA and some armed groups in Yabus area were over
collection of gum Arabic in forests were resolved.

(s)  Movement and access to some areas of operation remain a challenge
due to land mine threats. The Dindero-Kurmuk road remained a 'no-go' to
UN staff following a landmine incident on 2 March. According to UN Mine
Action Office (UNMAO), two additional land mines were found on the same
road. Mine clearance of the road will be completed on 8 April.

(t)  The Nyama-Diffra-Abyei road was declared 'go' area by UNDSS on 18
March after being closed for more than a week, as a result of a clash
between two factions of the former South Sudan Defence Forces (SSDF)
militia that resulted in eleven fatalities. Restriction of movement
imposed by local authorities to locations north of Abyei town is still
in effect. Despite the low level of tension in Abyei area, there is a
reported increase in the number of armed men in and around Abyei town
for the second consecutive week. Existing tension and restriction of
movement continues to hinder WFP activities.

(u)  Fieldwork for a study commissioned by WFP to assess the impact of
the Darfur conflict on the livelihoods of people across the region
commenced in North Darfur during the reporting period. The purpose of
the study is to enhance understanding of the extent that livelihoods and
markets have adapted to the current conflict and assess the impact of
food aid on livelihoods. Recommendations will be made on how livelihoods
can be best supported in the current context of violence and insecurity
and indications of how they may be affected as the situation evolves
under various scenarios. Fieldwork for the assessment, which will both
make specific recommendations to WFP and be of relevance to the wider
humanitarian community, started on 25 March in El Fasher IDP camps.

(v)  Development and reconstruction has so far been limited in South
Darfur since the signing of the Comprehensive Peace Agreement (CPA) in
January 2005. The Government of South Sudan faces enormous
administrative challenges, in terms of physical infrastructure,
administrative systems and human resources. A donor meeting convened on
10 March revealed that out of a total of 4.5 billion dollars pledged for
all of Sudan for a three-year period, following the signing of the CPA,
only 50 million dollars has been spent on development projects, while
more than 1.1 billion dollars has been spent on relief.

(w)  Findings from a nutrition survey in Bentiu and Rubkona locations
show high rates of malnutrition in Unity State. ACF conducted the survey
from 16 to 24 February, targeting children under five years. A Global
Acute Malnutrition (GAM) rate of 18.2 percent was reported in Bentiu and
20 percent in Rubkona. While Severe Acute Malnutrition (SAM) was 1.5
percent in Bentiu, and 1.3 percent in Rubkona.  The malnutrition rates
in both locations typically are above the global emergency threshold and
are expected to increase during the approaching hunger period. According
to ACF, these locations typically have a problem of chronic
malnutrition. Main causes for that have been identified as chronic food
shortages, inadequate potable water, harmful traditional child-care
practices and poor sanitation. ACF plans to address the problem through
home visits to increase awareness on causes and treatment of
malnutrition at the household level, and by advocating long-term
investment in health, education and infrastructure. WFP continues to
support ACF supplementary and therapeutic feeding programmes in Bentiu
and Rubkona.

(x)  Food security in South Sudan is expected to deteriorate
significantly between now and August, despite recent improved crop
production. The situation is particularly critical in Bahr El Ghazal
where livestock conditions are reportedly deteriorating and
resource-based conflicts intensified in recent months.  A total of 1.9
million people (excluding expected returnees) require 75,000 tons of
food aid this year. While food aid is crucial to some households, the
chronic nature of food insecurity and malnutrition will continue to
demand long-term and multi-sectoral interventions.

(y)  WFP Regional Director (RD) visited Red Sea and Kassala states in
Eastern Sudan, from 27-29 March. The visit includes meetings with the
state Walis, state Ministers of Education and Health, as well as visits
to different WFP-supported projects such as assistance to tuberculosis
and HIV/AIDS patients in Kassala hospital, literacy programme at Biryai
and general food distribution to the female-headed households in Fatu
IDP camps. The visit was however affected by the continuing movement
restrictions in Kassala.

(z)  WFP and Cooperating Partners briefed local authorities and
humanitarian agencies on the preliminary findings of the Nutrition and
Food Security survey that was conducted South Kordofan from 28 January
to 12 February 2006. The survey was implemented by 50 participants
including UNICEF, Ministry of Health, Ministry of Agriculture, FAO, Save
the Children-US and Medair. Preliminary findings show an overall Global
Acute Malnutrition Rate of 13.4 percent and a satisfactory maternal
nutritional status (3% MUAC). These nutritional results indicate that
poor nutritional rates are not the result of inadequate food but of
health status, feeding practices and incidence of illness, particularly
among children. WFP food assistance was reportedly appropriately
targeted during 2005 when more food insecure areas received a higher
proportion of food assistance.

(aa)  WFP together with FAO and other Cooperating Partners are
developing a joint plan for provision of assistance to beneficiaries in
Abyei. WFP and FAO established a Food Security and Food Aid and
Livelihood forum through which food aid and food security issues will be
discussed. Seeds and tools provided by FAO will be distributed, through
partners using WFP verification figures, along with WFP's April food
distribution.

(ab)  Between 1 and 26 March, WFP dispatched a total of 16,241 tons of
mixed food from logistical hubs to the Darfur region realising 78
percent of the dispatch plan for March. This includes 3,267 tons of
cereals dispatched to El Geneina from Abeche (Chad). As yet there have
been no air deliveries to the Darfur region in 2006. During the
reporting period, WFP's 6x6 fleet transported a total of 4,619 tons of
food in the three Darfur states.

(ac)  WFP dispatched a total of 1,002 tons of food from Uganda and Kenya
during the reporting period. Some 711 tons was delivered by road from
Lokichoggio in Kenya to various locations in South Sudan. There were no
dispatches by air. Another 291 tons was dispatched by road from
Koboko/Tororo into South Sudan.

(ad)  In West Darfur, refugees continued to arrive in Habilah during the
reporting period following fighting across the border in Chad. On 22
March, and in collaboration with UNHCR, WFP and SC-US distributed food
for one month totalling 14 tons to 789 vulnerable Chadian refugees in
the locality. Coordination regarding cross-border movements was ongoing
during the fortnight. WFP participated in an interagency meeting in
Abeche (Chad) to develop a preparedness strategy to meet the
humanitarian needs of an estimated 15,000 people expected to move
between eastern Chad and western Sudan, and vice versa, in the coming
months.

(ae)  WFP and CARE conducted a joint rapid needs assessment in Thur
camp, Jebel Marra, in response to reports of humanitarian need in the
area. Due to the presence of opposing parties to the conflict in the
vicinity, Thur is typically tense with reduced opportunities for access
and building livelihoods. An estimated 12,000 people, 85 percent of whom
displaced, were noted during the assessment to be facing critical food
shortages as well as a lack of other humanitarian services, primarily
water, sanitation and education. The resumption of food aid assistance,
which was suspended in January following the harvest, was consequently
recommended.

(af)  During the reporting period, the launch of food for education in
West Darfur was marked with dispatches in support of a pilot project
targeting schoolchildren in six schools in Foro Buranga, Wadi Salih,
Habilah and Gobe. The scheme, run in partnership with INTERSOS, the
Ministry of Education and parent-teacher's associations, is currently
providing school meals for over 3,000 pupils in the state. Subsequent
monitoring visits have noted the enthusiasm and support for the
initiative from the children, teachers and communities.

(ag)  Reports from partners in Kalma indicated an increase in cases of
bloody diarrhoea in south Darfur, with approximately 90 cases reported
in the last week. Meanwhile, WVI was in the process of verifying new
arrivals at the camp who were mainly noted to be from Kucka, Um Kunya,
Hassaballah, Ambaro, Towal and Es Safia.

(ah)  WFP and NRC carried out two rapid post harvest assessments in
areas to the south of Nyala. The assessments were undertaken as part of
a wider series currently ongoing across Darfur with the objective to
establish the crop production and will be used to develop food
intervention strategies up to the lean season.

(ai)  During the reporting period, WFP and partners identified food
insecure rural areas of North Darfur, namely Gani, Tura, Um Kedada,
Hamara and Damara areas and rural Kabkabiya, which will be targeted by
needs assessments to inform the strategy for food assistance during the
lean season. A complementary strategy will be developed for urban areas
in the coming months to ensure that food aid reaches the most food
insecure communities while discouraging migration.

(aj)  Registration and verification of new arrivals from Shearia, South
Darfur by IOM and WFP partners was ongoing during the reporting period
to identify those in need of humanitarian assistance. Recent fighting
between armed rebels and government forces in the locality has led to
the displacement of both residents and IDPs, some of whom to locations
in North Darfur.

(ak)  In Jonglei, a total of 27,941 beneficiaries received 522 tons of
food. Of the total reached, 22,038 beneficiaries received 371 tons in
Pagak, Bor and Walgak under general food distribution. Another 5,904
beneficiaries received food assistance through Food-for-Education,
Food-for-Asset and Food-for-Training. In Unity, 18,060 beneficiaries
received 189 tons of food in Payienjar and Leer counties. Of the total,
2,000 were returnees and received 16 tons of food. In Upper Nile, WFP
distributed 994 tons of food to 47,480 beneficiaries under general food
distribution in various locations in the state. Of these, 20,987
returnees received 555 tons in Atar, Kaldak, Dolieb hills, Ogod, Khor
Fulus and Tufugia locations. In Northern Bahr El Ghazal, 11,273
beneficiaries received 162 tons of food in Gok Machar and Tieraliet
locations. In Warrap, WFP distributed 324 tons to 28,260 beneficiaries
in Gogrial West and Tonj counties. In Lakes, WFP assisted 11,328
beneficiaries in Yirol and Matiab with 181 tons of assorted commodities.
In Western Bahr El Ghazal, WFP distributed 125 tons of food to 8,000
IDPs in Wau camps.

(al)  WFP together with German Agro Action, the Sudan Relief and
Rehabilitation Commission conducted a head count exercise in Bentiu,
Rubkona and Guit counties in Unity state. Preliminary findings indicate
the presence of 91,916 people comprising of vulnerable local residents,
IDPs and returnees in these three areas as follows: 46,868 in Bentiu,
45,660 in Rubkona and 7,388 in Guit. Similar exercises will be carried
out in Koch, Leer, Mirmir and Dablual next week. WFP carried out a
general food distribution in Bentiu and Rubkona after completion of the
head count exercise.

(am)  A joint team comprising of WFP and the International Relief and
Development (IRD) carried out a needs assessment in the period 8-16
March in thirteen locations in the six payams of Meluth County. About 60
percent of the 48,000 population in the county suffer from severe food
shortages due to poor rains, pests and lack of resources. The situation
is compounded by the continued influx of returnees, further impacting on
depleted coping mechanisms. The team recommended a verification and
registration exercise to target the most vulnerable groups, followed by
immediate provision of food assistance. A nutritional assessment was
also recommended to verify reported signs of severe malnutrition among
children and elderly people in the County.

(an)  WFP in collaboration with the Sudan Relief and Rehabilitation
Commission conducted a needs assessment in Hai Matar in Malakal town
during the reporting period. The assessment team identified and
registered 1,950 of the most vulnerable local residents, IDPs and
returnees in the area. The team recommended immediate food assistance to
the registered population..

(ao)  WFP organized a one-day briefing workshop for participants in the
rolling needs assessment that commenced in Red Sea (eastern Sudan) on 13
March. Participants included UNDP, Oxfam, ACCORD, International Rescue
Committee, Sudanese Red Crescent, Ministry of Agriculture, Humanitarian
Aid Commission and the Ministry of Health.  The workshop trained
enumerators on testing questionnaires and data collection techniques on
the ground. A similar orientation workshop was conducted in Kassala with
the participation of local government, UN Agencies and NGOs. The
assessment will cover seven locations in Kassala in the period 19-26
March.

(ap)  WFP together with other UN Agencies and NGOs participated in a
joint assessment mission, led by OCHA, in Kassala to assess the
humanitarian situation and thus update the contingency plan for Hamash
Koreib IDPs. The mission visited Hadalia, Matateib, Tahjer and
Dabalawait A and B IDP camps, which are expected to receive new IDPs.
The mission will visit the remaining camps of Odi and Togley next week.

(aq)  A logistics mission from WFP headquarters and the Regional Office
in Khartoum visited Port Sudan, Red Sea. The purpose of the mission was
to update the current COMPAS system in Port Sudan. The team visited WFP
warehouses in Red Sea and the Port where WFP commodities are
discharged..

(ar)  WFP plans to commence a registration and verification exercise for
food-for-recovery beneficiaries in Halaieb and Sinkat provinces in Red
Sea state during the first week of April 2006. WFP's Cooperating
Partner, Oxfam, completed a registration and verification exercise in
the Rural Port Sudan locality and the exercise is ongoing in Tokar
locality. OXFAM plans to complete the remaining locations by mid-April
2006.

(as)  A WFP mission to South Korofan held comprehensive bilateral
meetings with Cooperating Partner in Kadugli, Save the Children-US, and
state authorities to discuss and finalize operational issues and
collaboration in the state. Meetings discussed ongoing activities and
means of adopting a common strategy. The mission proceeded to Kauda and
discussed similar issues in addition to plans for food pre-positioning,
Food-for-Education strategies and handover of activities following the
new geographical division of the state as Kauda will fall under the
supervision of Kadugli sub-office, as of 1 April. Progress was made
towards better coordination of activities and information sharing. WFP
also plans to enhance cooperation with other humanitarian agencies
operational in South Kordofan.

(at)  WFP and Cooperating Partner, Save the Children-US finalized plans
to commence verification and registration of beneficiaries next week.
The exercise will cover Karkar, Ferish and Chawere areas.

(au)  Movement of returnees and refugees back to their areas of origin
in Blue Nile state has reportedly increased. An influx of 2,243 IDP
returnees was reported by rolling assessment team in Kelly payam, north
Kurmuk locality during the reporting period.  The returnees arrived from
Sharkole camps to Kelly in the period 9-14 March. A UNHCR team reported
that the first convoy of refugee returnees would commence moving from
Bonga camp on 31 March and will arrive in Kurmuk on the first week of
April proceeding to Chaille.

(av)  Furthermore, some 650 people, who returned from Ethiopia in 2004,
arrived in Aburas village from Kor El Dahab located 37 km away from the
village. Another 138 people arrived in Kashankaro from Bakori, 45 km
away. These returnees are reportedly in need of humanitarian assistance,
particularly food, in the coming months. WFP is currently verifying and
registering returnees and vulnerable groups in Blue Nile. In addition,
WFP is pre-positioning food commodities in Challie and Kurmuk to cover
the requirements of returnees and other vulnerable groups from April
through October 2006.

(aw)  The preliminary results of a nutrition survey conducted by GOAL in
Kurmuk in February 2006 indicate a satisfactory nutrition status for
children under the age of five. The Global Acute Malnutrition rate was
reported at 5.7-11.2, while the Severe Acute Malnutrition rate at
0.6-1..8.

(ax)  WFP and CARE International distributed one-month rations totaling
121 tons of food commodities to 6,396 returnees through general food
distribution. Distributions were undertaken in five villages in Kadugli
namely Doloka, Katcha, Kafina, Mirri Barra and Kega Alkhil.  CARE will
distribute 1,025 tons of WFP food representing one-month rations to
31,849 registered returnees in Kadugli, Lagawa and Dilling localities
through general distribution. WFP teams also reached 7,810 returnees in
Lado with 127 tons of food commodities through general food
distribution.

(ay)  WFP teams completed verification and registration exercise in 12
locations in Abyei area. Re-registration in the returnee village,
Rumamer, was also conducted. The team was unable to proceed to four
major areas north and west of Abyei town due to movement restrictions
imposed on UN personnel by local authorities in Abyei.

(az)  The rolling assessment that commenced last week in North Kordofan
State was completed on 24 March. The assessment covered 220 households
in 19 locations in seven localities in the state. Preliminary results
indicate that some communities, excluding IDPs, have food balances that
will cover their requirements during the month of April. Results and
recommendations are being finalized.

(ba)  WFP conducted a Food-for-Asset training workshop in El Obeid,
North Kordofan state. Participants included counterparts in the Ministry
of Agriculture, Planning Department, Water and Sanitation, Humanitarian
Aid Commission, Ministry of Health, Ministry of Education and all the
members of the Food-for-Asset State Technical Committee. The objectives
of the training were to have a better understanding of the priority
needs by area, to understand the required technical procedures and
requirements, standardize Food-for-Asset implementation modalities and
construction techniques, to set guidelines for sustainable community
management, to have access to more practical and simplified
food-for-asset work-norms and to mainstream gender issues in the
food-for-asset interventions.

(bb)  During the reporting period, a total of 147 tons of assorted WFP
food commodities were dispatched to Cooperating Partner, CARE
International. The dispatched food will be distributed to 1,234
Food-for-Asset participants of whom 61 percent are women in seven hafir
sites in North Kordofan state. CARE urged communities to complete
activities at the remaining two hafir sites by the end of March 2006.
WFP monitored Food-for-Asset hafir site in Tayba El Imama, North
Kordofan state. Findings show the presence of 398 Food-for-Asset
participants, 70 percent female. Women represent about 40 percent of the
hafir construction committee members tasked with supervision and
management of construction. Another field visit was conducted to Al
Rawda hafir site where food distribution was taking place.

(bc)  The State Minister of Social Affairs held a meeting with the
special committee tasked with following up the situation of returnees
who have stayed for a long period in the wharf of Kosti, White Nile. The
meeting parties decided to take further action in preparing the new
wharf to accommodate the needs of the increasing number of returnees, in
addition to expediting passenger barges and trips to be organized for
Juba soon. In addition, the meeting recommended a workshop for the
Federal Government, South Sudan Government, UN agencies and NGOs to
discuss ways of facilitating safe return to the south. Recommendations
will be submitted to the local government. During the reporting period,
several barges left Kosti, White Nile to Juba, Bahr El Jebel carrying an
estimated number of 1,000 returnees en route to their areas of origin.

(bd)  ADRA and IOM continued to track and monitor movement of returnees
in Kosti wharf and bus stations. A total of 983 returnees (248
households) were identified returning to Upper Nile, Equatoria, Jonglei
and Bahr El Ghazel States. The returnees origin are from, Khartoum,
White Nile, Blue Nile, Gedarif, Kassala, Gezira and Red Sea. WFP and
ADRA distributed three tons of High Energy Biscuits to 928 transit
returnees (47 percent female) en route to Malakal, Upper Nile and Juba,
Bahr El Jebel.

(be)  WFP conducted a rolling needs assessment in the period 21-27 March
in four locations in White Nile, Sherage West Dowem locality, Jabalain,
Karchol and Dankuch. The objective of the assessment was to check the
validity of the 2005 ANA recommendations for some areas. Initial
findings indicate that the ANA recommendations are still valid in these
areas with no need to revise in regard to food interventions.

(bf)  Emergency Operation 10503.0 has so far received contributions
totalling US$117 million, 16 percent of the US$746m requirement. Due to
the slow response to the appeal, shortfalls in certain commodities are
currently anticipated from April onwards. In response, reductions in
rations of pulses, sugar and salt have already been effected for up to
3.5 million people from March to mitigate the expected impact of the
breaks.. With a 50 percent cut in the rations of these commodities, only
1,950 kcal of the daily recommended intake of 2,100 kcal is being
delivered with protein reduced by almost 10 percent. At the current
resourcing level, and with limited borrowing ability this year, WFP will
not be able to pre-position adequate stocks in remote locations that
will become inaccessible during the rainy season.

(bg)  Humanitarian Air Service (WFP-HAS) Special Operation 10181.3
requires a total of US$27 million in 2006. With monthly operating costs
of over US$2 million, donor support is vital to allow WFP-HAS to
continue to provide services to the humanitarian community in Darfur and
throughout Sudan. Initially, the consequences of the funding shortfall
will lead to an imminent and sizeable reduction in both the fleet size
and the frequency of flights. Ultimately, the air service will be
suspended cutting off access to remote areas which are not covered by
commercial operators and in many cases where humanitarian assistance is
most needed. This will include the helicopter service in Darfur which
provides access for the humanitarian community to locations inaccessible
by land due to current and prevailing insecurity.

(bh)  Phase III of WFP's emergency road repairs and mine clearance
Special Operation 10368.0 project in South Sudan faces a funding
shortfall of US$79.7 million. In the absence of funding, the project is
now missing the beginning of the dry season for works under Phase III
contracts.

(bi)  Under the Emergency Repairs and Upgrade of River Transport
Infrastructure Special Operation 10412.0, WFP is also requesting for
US$13 million to augment barge capacity in Sudan under the Special
Operation 10412.0. Contributions will be used to purchase two passenger
barges as well as two pushers and eight cargo barges.


(9) Tanzania

(a)  A total of 2,679 refugees (470 Burundians and 2,209 Congolese) have
voluntarily repatriated to their home between 1-26 March. During the
same period, 4,734 asylum seekers arrived in western Tanzania.

(b)  The WFP refugee operation (PRRO) continues to distribute reduced
rations in order to extend resources in anticipation of a shortfall
expected in June. As a result, refugees were provided with a reduced
ration of 287g maize grain (or 266g maize meal), 80g pulses, 40g
corn-soya blend (CSB), 20g oil and 10g salt. The reduced ration provides
refugees with a daily intake of 1,555 Kcal, which is 74 percent of the
approved ration level. It is expected that WFP Tanzania will continue
distributing reduced rations until June.

(c)  A Joint Needs Assessment Mission of the current Great Lakes
Regional PRRO 10062.2 was initiated by WFP, UNHCR and FAO last week. The
overall objective of the joint mission is to assess the need for and
scope of a revised PRRO beyond 2006 since the current PRRO 10062.2 was
approved by WFP Executive Board for only one year. The Joint Assessment
Report is due in May 2006.

(d)  General distribution covers 360,079 registered refugees. During the
past week, WFP distributed 1,258 tons of food through general
distribution, supplementary and therapeutic feeding in refugee camps in
western Tanzania. Around 7,750 food insecure and otherwise vulnerable
Tanzanians in the host communities surrounding the camps were also
supported with WFP host community activities, including access to
camp-based health care facilities, school feeding, home based care,
food-for-training and vulnerable feeding.

(e)  Since the last update on 22 March, the Netherlands contributed US$
241,000 in cash. The contribution is yet to be programmed. A shortfall
of 25,157 tons (US$ 15.6 million) exists up to the end of December 2006.


(10) Uganda

(a)  The UN Under-Secretary General for Humanitarian Affairs and
Emergency Relief Coordinator, Mr Jan Egeland, is visiting Uganda between
30 March and 2 April. He will meet with President Museveni to discuss
Northern Uganda. On Thursday, 30 March, Mr Egeland met with the UN
Country team, and is expected to meet with the World Bank on Friday, 31
March. He is also expected to hold a separate informal briefing with
donor core group members and then meet NGOs. He will travel to Pader
district, hosted by WFP, on 1 April.

(b)  A tripartite agreement has been signed by the Government of Uganda,
Government of Sudan and UNHCR for the repatriation of Sudanese refugees
residing in Uganda.  Planning is underway to repatriate the first 4,000
individuals of the overall 130,000.  WFP Uganda is working closely with
UNHCR as well as with WFP Sudan to coordinate the operation.

(c)  WFP is finalising distribution of seeds and tools to 50,000
internally displaced persons (IDPs) in Lira district to support people
who are returning to their villages of origin.

(d)  WFP food distribution continues to reach 1.45 million displaced
persons, 165,000 refugees and other vulnerable persons. During the past
two weeks, WFP distributed 4,804 tons of food assistance to 549,112
persons including IDPs sheltering in camps in Gulu, Kitgum, Pader and
Lira districts, refugees, children in nutrition centres and other
vulnerable persons.

(e)  Access to land around the IDP camps generally increased over the
last 18 months due to a gradual reduction in violent LRA attacks. IDPs
should have been able to provide 40 percent of their daily food needs
starting January 2006, but will still require 60 percent from external
sources until at least the July 2006 harvest. Without this assistance,
malnutrition rates would significantly rise and the death rates of young
children would increase rapidly.

(f)  WFP pipeline shortfall through December 2006 currently stands at
65,000 tons with pipeline breaks anticipated in June 2006.



(D) West Africa: (1) Cote d'Ivoire (2) Liberia

(1) Cote d'Ivoire

(a)  During the reporting period (23-29 March), the security situation
was fairly calm overall the country except in the West and Korhogo
region.  The western area of Guiglo was in Security Phase 4. ONUCI is
negotiating its return to Guiglo. Increasing robberies and criminal
activities were reported in the region of Korhogo. M'bengue, Napie
,Korhogo and Lataha were localities of concern. Security recommendations
to UN staff remained unchanged. Caution and high vigilance was advised
all over the country.

(b)  An agreement was signed on 24 March 2006 between the Independent
Electoral Commission (IEC) and the Ivorian Party of Workers (IPW) after
the IPW has threatened to leave the IEC. Though it was present at Linas
Marcoussis, the Party had no position within the IEC. It has then been
agreed to appoint the IPW representative as the special adviser of the
IEC chairman.

(c)  The Minister of the Economic Infrastructures conducted a mission in
Korhogo on Friday 24 and Saturday 25 March 2006 to find a sustainable
solution to the problem of insufficient supply of potable water in
Korhogo. As a preliminary measure, technicians have been asked to assess
the possibility of joining the installations of the National Society for
Water Distribution to the Bandama river at Boundiali, 35 kms far fom
Korhogo. 800 local forages will be installed as part of the hydraulic
programme and a technical manager for the Hydraulic will be redeployed.
The Ministry has also requested the support of the local humanitarian
agencies.

(d)  According to the last statistics of the Ministry of Education, the
level of participation to the examinations for the Certificat d'Etudes
Primaires et Elementaires (CEPE), that have been held on Tuesday 14
March 2006 in the Forces Nouvelles zones, is 71.4 per cent, with 38,657
children attending out of 54,086 enrolled.

(e)  During the reporting period, WFP delivered a total of 274 tons food
to 30,598 beneficiaries through its sub-offices.

(f)  As part of the voluntary repatriation programme that is organised
weekly by UNCHR, WFP provided a one-day ration to 200 refugees in
transit for Liberia.

(g)  The WFP and FAO joint mission continued the assessment of
agriculture and food needs in the Denguele region (Odienne), northwest
of Man.

(h)  The WFP deputy country director conducted a mission to Bouake,
Korogho and Man sub-offices. The mission had meetings with the
Cooperating Partners and field level agreements for 2006 have been
signed to support nutrition activities, school feeding, people living
with HIV Aids, orphans and other vulnerable children. WFP-assisted sites
were also visited.

(i)  WFP and the other humanitarian agencies are preparing for their
return to Guiglo. In the meantime the WFP Guiglo sub-office has been
reequipped with ICT materials in compliance with the minimum office
security standards.

(j)  As of 29 March 2006, the regional Protracted Recovery and Relief
Operation (PRRO) Cote d'Ivoire, Burkina, Ghana, Mali received a total of
35.1 million US dollars against the operational needs of 50.1 million US
dollars (29.7 percent shortfall or 14.9 million US dollars against
operational requirements). Additional funding is required in order to
avo


(2) Liberia

(a)  During the reporting period (20-26 March), the general security
situation in Liberia was calm but tense due to reports of escape and
arrest of the former Liberian President Charles Taylor in Nigeria. In
Voinjama, Lofa County, a gang broke into the WFP warehouse on March 26
and stole seven cartons of vegetable oil. The Liberian National Police
(LNP) located their base and recovered the stolen items. The thieves
were also arrested and are presently in the LNP cells in Voinjama town.

(b)  Protests and disorder from the ex-combatants over non-payment of
benefits were reported in Monrovia, Buchanan (Grand Bassa County) and
Zorzor (Lofa County). Measures are being put in place to address these
issues on time to avert disturbances caused by payment disputes between
ex-combatants and the implementing partners.

(c)  Between 22-26 March, a joint meeting was held in the three Mano
River countries (Liberia, Guinea, and Sierra Leone) in Foya, Lofa
County. The meeting discussed sub-regional peace and capacity building
amongst the Mano River states and Guinean troop's occupation in some
towns in Sierra Leone. The Vice President of Liberia, the Prime Minister
of Guinea and the Sierra Leone Finance Minister represented the three
countries.

(d)  General food distribution was carried out at the Saclepea Refugee
Camp in Nimba County, reaching 1,082 beneficiaries with a total of 36
tons of food.  Due to some logistical constraints at WFP Saclepea Sub
office, the beneficiaries received two months food rations (March and
April) to enable the sub office focus on school feeding and resettlement
activities in April. Sensitization was carried out to the refugees by
LRRRC, WFP, and UNHCR and explained the reasons for the two months food
rations distributed.

(e)  A total of 1,233 tons of food was distributed to 165,919
beneficiaries under the various feeding programs, of which 55 percent
was delivered to schools and 33 percent distributed under the
resettlement program.

(f)  During the reporting period, a total of 413 tons of food was
distributed to some 12,450 IDPs and returning refugees under the
resettlement programme. Distribution of the first tranche resettlement
package was completed in Conneh IDP camp (second last IDP camp). Over
250 persons categorized as the 'missing ration card group' were verified
and given the resettlement food package. However, up to the final day of
food distribution, most IDPs were still in the camps and appeared
reluctant to depart.  Some of those interviewed mentioned that they
planned to wait until the closing of school term to allow their children
complete the school calendar year.

(g)  The resettlement exercise commenced in Buchanan IDP camp (the last
IDP camp) and majority of the 11,000 IDPs in the camp had received their
first tranche by end of the week.

(h)  Completion of distribution of the first tranche in Buchanan IDP
camp will mark the end of food distribution in IDP camps in Liberia.
Meanwhile, distribution of the second tranche will continue in the
various locations where returnees have been resettled. WFP expects to
complete the second tranche distribution by July 2006.

(i)  As of March 24, 2006, a total of 60,573 returnees have been
repatriated by UNHCR and 320,759 that were residing in over 35 IDP camps
in Liberia de-registered.  Of the population resettled and deregistered,
48,175 returnees and 291,960 IDPs qualify to receive food resettlement
package. Of which, some 34,050 returnees (71 percent) and 243,787 IDP
beneficiaries (83.50 percent) have completed receiving their four months
resettlement food package.

(j)  Under the Emergency School Feeding (ESF), WFP delivered a total of
677 tons of food to feed an estimated 142,383 school children located in
various counties including Lofa, Maryland, Montserrado, Nimba, Grand
Bassa, Cape Mount and Bong. In Lofa County, three schools received
Non-Food Items.

(k)  Under the Food Support for Local Initiatives (FSLI), a total of 39
tons of assorted food commodities was distributed to 3,932 persons
involved in various FSLI projects including skills training programs for
ex-combatants and road rehabilitation projects. WFP and Cooperating
Partners continued to assess community projects that can be supported
through FSLI programme.  In Nimba County, an assessment team led by WFP
Saclepea office visited seven agriculture projects located in Saclepea
Mah Districts. The projects assessed included Fish ponds, Crocodile
ponds and vegetable gardens.  All of the projects assessed are community
based and their proposals will be reviewed for possible food assistance
through FSLI.

(l)  WFP distributed a total of 68 Mt of food to 5,617 beneficiaries in
various institutions under the Nutrition Intervention Programs.

(m)  Additional pledges and resources are still needed to avert food
shortfalls of 2,138 tons expected over the next six months, April -
September valued at USD $1.6 Million. The shortfalls include 1,624 tons
of cereals, 416 tons of pulses and 98 tons of vegetable oil.

(n)  WFP started loading of various assorted food commodities in
containers to be shipped to Harper Sub office. A total of 180 tons will
be shipped on an UNMIL chartered vessel M/V "Catherina" to Harper. Due
to the bad road conditions, WFP depends on UNMIL sea transport to
deliver food aid to Harper, Maryland County.

(o)  During the reporting period, a total of 1,517 tons of assorted food
commodities was dispatched from Monrovia to various sub offices in the
country, in continuation of the March 2006 food distributions.

(p)  Data collection for the comprehensive food security and nutrition
survey continued during the reporting period, with no major
constraints.. Data collection is expected to be completed by end of
April throughout the country. The survey is being conducted with the
support of four Government Ministries, Liberia Institute of Statistics,
UNICEF, WHO, FAO, UNMIL, UNDP, CRS, World Vision, Africare and LINNK.

(q)  During the reporting period, WFP was involved in the preparation of
a Joint Action Plan (JAP) with UNHCR.  The first draft of the action
plan was prepared and is still under review by both parties.  A meeting
has been scheduled to review the final draft on April 03, at UNDP.

(r)  The Ministry of Education held a one-day consultation meeting in
Gbarnga, Bong County with all the District Education Officers from the
15 Counties and the school feeding plan for 2006 was one of the main
issues discussed during the meeting.  The Ministry also informed the
Education Officers about the coming 'Walk the World - Fight Hunger'
global event and encouraged them to participate in the walk in May 2006.

(s)  In an effort to boost the network security for WFP Country Office,
web monitor security scanner software was installed and successfully
tested on the network. ICT assessment missions to Zwedru, Voinjama and
Harper Sub-Offices were also completed during the reporting period.



(E) Southern Africa: (1) Angola (2) Botswana (3) Lesotho (4) Malawi (5)
Mozambique (6) Swaziland (7) Zambia (8) Zimbabwe

(1) Angola

(a)  WFP's food aid operation aimed at supporting the return and
resettlement process will end on 31 March, with a new operation planned
to follow immediately. The new project will last three years (April
2006/March 2009) and will focus on providing food assistance to the
education and health sectors in conflict-affected communities of Angola.
An estimated 711,000 beneficiaries will receive assistance at a total
cost of USD87 million. Donor support is required to ensure that the new
programme gets off to a solid start.

(b)  On Monday 27 March, the Luanda Provincial Department of Education
(DPE), in partnership with WFP, launched the first School Feeding scheme
in the country's capital. During the first phase of implementation,
15,000 primary school children will receive two nutritious meals per day
at school. The target is to increase this to 50,000 by the end of 2006.
The programme will focus exclusively amongst the poorest of Luanda's
municipalities.  Upon country-wide implementation, approximately 320,000
children will benefit from the programme.

(c)  According to a recent FEWSNET report, approximately 40,000 people
were displaced due to heavy rainfall in several villages bordering with
the Democratic Republic of Congo.  Just over 1,600 homes and
accompanying farm fields have been destroyed.


(2) Botswana

(a)  Child mortalities continue to escalate with a cumulative total of
approximately 21,000 cases and 400 deaths as a result of a severe
diarrhoea outbreak in Botswana.  Laboratory tests have indicated two
different subtypes of crypto parasites that are found in humans,
indicating the outbreak probably came from human sewage. Since the onset
of diarrhoea, there have been increasing cases of malnutrition,
especially marasmus and kwashiorkor in some communities.  As water
supplies have been found to be contaminated, the Ministry of Health
organized a meeting with representatives from water supply and
environmental authorities where an action plan was drawn for the most
immediate actions.


(3) Lesotho

(a)  During the reporting period (22-28 March), WFP and Cooperating
Partners provided food to an estimated 36,000 people.  Beneficiaries
were participants in HIV/AIDS, tuberculosis, mother and childcare,
orphans and other vulnerable children programmes, as well as
Food-for-Work (FFW) and Food-for-Assets (FFA) projects.

(b)  Results of a joint study undertaken by WFP and the Disaster
Management Authority indicate 190,000 people living in Lesotho's most
impoverished areas have little access to basic food requirements and
face chronic food insecurity.  Approximately 80 percent of the
households were affected by HIV/AIDS with household members either too
weak to farm or earn a living, or the family members were made up of
high numbers of children and/or elderly.


(4) Malawi

(a)  The price of maize in the southern region of Malawi has been
steadily decreasing as people begin to harvest their crops. However,
prices in the central and northern region have not changed
significantly, and in some areas are rising.  ADMARC depot supplies have
increased but sales are dependent on local harvest and market
situations.


(5) Mozambique

(a)  The harvest has begun in most areas of the southern and central
provinces (Maputo, Gaza, Inhambane, Manica, Sofala, Tete, and Zambezia).
According to the Provincial Directorates of Agriculture, this season's
prospects are favourable. However, irregular rainfall, floods, disease
and pests are responsible for reduced crops as well as animal loss in
Manica and Sofala provinces.

(b)  Significant rainfall was reported in most provinces of the south
and centre of the country. However, the trend in river levels is still
decreasing. The Zambezi River is still above the flood alert level in
Caia and Marromeu (Sofala Province).


(6) Swaziland

(a)  According to a March update from the Ministry of Agriculture, the
country's total cereal requirement for the 2005/2006 agricultural season
currently stands at 183,000 tons. Currently there is a projected
domestic cereal availability of approximately 83,000 tons, which is
comprised of 71,600 tons of maize, 10,600 tons of wheat and 400 tons of
rice. The report further indicates an overall domestic shortfall of
106,400 tons.

(b)  Field reports indicate the recent rainfall received in the Lowveld
and Lubombo Plateau has been beneficial for pastures and there has been
visible improvement in the condition of livestock. Farmers in the area,
however, report the rains are negatively affecting those crops planted
in November/December 2005, which are at the drying stage, whilst
late-planted crops are already flowering.


(7) Zambia

(a)  A phase-down of WFP's emergency relief distribution programme is
currently underway with the Government, WFP and Cooperating Partners are
working on a reduction strategy to be implemented as of 1 April 2006.
Approximately 600,000 people will continue to need food assistance,
which will be met through relief and recovery activities under the
regional Protracted Relief and Recovery Operation (PRRO).

(b)  There has been a cholera outbreak in Kapiri Mposhi town (Central
Province). Public gatherings have been banned and WFP distributions in
urban areas have been affected.  Since 20 March, 35 people have been
admitted in the hospital and two people have died. Distributions in the
outskirts of the town have not been affected.

(c)  Crop assessments by local government officials in Itezhi Tezhi
District (Southern Province) indicate excessive rainfall in the district
has led to poor crop development.  Fertilizer and nutrients needed for
growth have been washed away and maize is showing signs of stunted
growth. The food security situation in the district is reported to be
precarious and long term food security is not assured due to expected
low yields.

(d)  Heavy rainfall continues in Kazungula District (Southern
Province).. Flood victims are living in makeshift camps that are now
accommodating more than 1,000 people, who are receiving food and
Non-Food Items. While the Zambian Police and Army are working to
relocate the flood-affected, some households have yet to be ferried to
higher ground.  The floods are reported to be the worst since 1958.


(8) Zimbabwe

(a)  In Mashonaland Central Province, farmers have started harvesting
maize, which has led to decreased market prices. However, Masvingo
Province is still experiencing maize grain price hikes, with a 43
percent increase in Chiredzi District over the past three weeks.

(b)  Monitoring reports continued to indicate inadequate stocks coming
from the Grain Marketing Board (GMB), and that food aid is the main
source of cereals, with households having depleted their stocks from
last season's harvest. In Lupane District, the District Administrator
reports the GMB was able to supply 90 tons of grain, meeting only 25
percent of the district's weekly food requirement. According to
community representatives, food shortages have resulted in most people
harvesting immature crops and eating wild food.



(F) Asia: (1) Myanmar (2) Philippines

(1) Myanmar

(a)  During the reporting period (16-29 March), under the Emergency
Operation (EMOP) 10345.1, a total of 136 tons of rice was dispatched to
Lashio and Pang Kham for Food-for-Education, Food-for-Work and
Vulnerable Group Feeding activities. In Kokang, 2 months food ration was
distributed as an emergency response to 26 households affected by fire
outbreak in Konchan Village Tract. Notes on food security situation have
been prepared by WFP sub-offices for the EMOP evaluation and formulation
mission.

(b)  Under the Protracted Relief and Recovery Operation (PRRO) 10066.2,
a total of 130 tons of mixed food commodities were dispatched to
Maungdaw and Magway for Vulnerable Group Feeding and Food-for-Work
activities. Food-for-Education workshop and Emergency Food Security
Analysis training were conducted in Northern Rakhine State.

(c)  The Government of the Union of Myanmar has announced that with
effect from the 1st of April, the Government will raise the salaries of
the Government servants by 5 to 10 folds. As a result, sharp rise in the
prices of essential commodities and goods have been observed. Electronic
Records Management Programme (ERMP) orientation and hands-on training
were provided for ERMP roll out in Myanmar Country Office.

(d)  NGO Cooperating Partner, World Vision will withdraw its presence
from Pin Laung at the end of May because it was unable to plan for an
area development project, to obtain MOU with the Government and to raise
matching funds due to current on-going poppy cultivation.  WFP field
office in Mong Maw in the WA area was officially inaugurated on 17
March.

(e)  On 18 March 2006, NGO Cooperating Partner ADRA was asked by the WA
authorities to leave Wa under the claim of "engaging in political
activities". After rounds of negotiations facilitated by WFP, Wa
authorities have allowed ADRA to remain in WA on the condition that ADRA
replaces its national staff. ADRA has confirmed that it will withdraw
two of its national staff.


(2) Philippines

(a)  During the reporting period (16-29 March), the general situation in
the Philippines remained calm but unpredictable due to the ongoing
investigation into the foiled coup attempt of 24 February.  Senior
officers of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) and Elite Police
Special Action Force were arrested in connection with the coup attempt.
Senior Generals have warned that though the key elements have been
arrested, the threat remains real.

(b)  In Mindanao the situation was generally calm.  Security has been
beefed up at military and government installations and at police
detachments in preparation for the anniversary of the founding of the
New Peoples' Army (NPA) on 29 March. The NPA has a record of staging
ambuscades or surprise attacks on military or police outposts, usually
in the remote villages, to dramatize its continuing struggle for the
establishment of a communist state in the country.

(c)  There was a bomb attack on a shopping area in Jolo City, Sulu
Province.  Ten people were killed and a few others injured. No one has
claimed responsibility for the attack.  In Occidental, Luzon, five
persons were killed in a shoot-out between suspected communist fighters
of the NPA and the AFP. WFP operations in Mindanao have not been
affected by the incidents.

(d)  WFP will be working in five provinces in Mindanao: Lanao del Sur,
Lanao del Norte, Maguindanao, Sultan Kudarat and North Cotabato. Two of
the provinces, Lanao del Sur and Maguindanao, form part of the
Autonomous Region of Muslim Mindanao (ARMM) and are particularly
affected by population displacement as a result of the conflict. It is
estimated that the Emergency Operation (EMOP) will reach 60 percent of
the populations in the conflict affected targeted areas.

(e)  WFP implemented a total of seven activities under the EMOP,
including school-feeding for primary school children,
Food-for-Work/Food-for-Training for vulnerable conflict affected
populations, resettlement support for internally displaced people and a
Mother and Child Nutrition programme for pregnant and lactating women
and children under the age of two.

(f)  WFP has identified the German Technical Co-operation (GTZ) as a
technical partner for the EMOP and a GTZ-consultant has arrived from
Germany to work with WFP.  At present the collaboration will extend to
two target provinces: Lanao del Norte and Sultan Kudurat, with the
purpose of helping partner NGOs and Local Government Units to implement
the programme along with complimentary inputs for the different
interventions.  GTZ is also interested in supporting WFP with monitoring
and evaluation for all five target provinces, including impact
assessment, learning from each other, best case studies being
highlighted etc. More cooperative partners are being identified both for
coordination support, technical and Non-Food Items support as well as
implementation of the programme activities.

(g)  The port assessments for the five target ports in Mindanao have
been completed and Port of Polluc is being considered as point of entry
for WFP cargos.  A weekly liner from Manila calls on the port permitting
containerized cargos.  Warehouse facilities in connection with the port
are available for use of WFP and permits the shortest routes to
operational areas.

(h)  The transport assessment is underway and should be completed by 1
April.  Transport into the Autonomous Region of Muslim Mindanao (ARMM)
areas will be difficult to manage with non-ARMM based transporters.
Costs of transport into many areas of Maguindanao Province will be at
premium rates due to marsh and security.  Transporters in the ARMM areas
are limited and there are indications that there is insufficient uplift
capacity.

(i)  A draft plan of the logistics network is nearing completion and
awaiting confirmation of Cooperation Partner involvement in tertiary
transport and warehousing.  LTSH matrix is in progress and will be
finalized on completion of the logistics network plan.  The logistics
assessment of services and facilities in Manila will be conducted next
week.  This will include port, superintendents, shipping agents and the
Ministry of Transport.

(j)  Out of the US$27 million needed, WFP Philippines has so far
received IRA/DSC/ODOC-advances of around US$2.5 million to start up
operations. Part of this has been repaid. During the reporting period,
WFP received confirmation of a US$1.2 million donation for the EMOP.

(k)  WFP is re-establishing a presence in the Philippines with an
emergency operation that will feed 2.1 million people in Mindanao in
support of the peace process. The operation is currently in the
preparation stage and the food distributions are scheduled to commence
in June when schools resume. Prior to this, WFP intends to implement a
smaller pilot of all the planned activities as a test run with new
Cooperating Partners.

(l)  WFP attended the Mindanao Working Group (MWG) meeting in Davao on
17 March and gave a presentation on the planned EMOP 10489.0/
activities. The meeting is chaired by the World Bank and the Office of
the President's Advisor on the Peace Process (OPAPP) and brings together
stakeholder from Government, local authorities, donors, international
and non-governmental organizations.



(G) Latin America and Caribbean: (1) Bolivia (2) Colombia (3) Cuba (4)
Guatemala (5) Nicaragua (6) Peru

(1) Bolivia

(a)  During the reporting period (24-30 March), the government of
Bolivia released an official report on the actions to take on for
rehabilitation after the emergency. It is estimated that losses add up
to 260 million dollars; however, the negative impact over employment and
income has not yet been quantified. General strikes started on Thursday
30 March, by health, education and transport sector.  Two foreign
suspects were arrested last week accused of having set two bomb blasts
on Tuesday 21st in the city of La Paz.

(b)  As of Wednesday 29th March, an estimated 13,043 affected families
have received 340 tons of food aid in the Departments of Santa Cruz,
Beni and La Paz.

(c)  During the reporting period, Emergency Operation (IR-EMOP 10511.0)
38 tons of food was distributed to more than 1,340 families in the
Department of Santa Cruz and La Paz. WFP intends to assist 9,000
families for a period of 10 months in the Departments of Santa Cruz,
Beni and La Paz, as IR-EMOP resources will meet requirements of the
affected families for a maximum period of 60 days.


(2) Colombia

(a)  Colombian authorities have reported that 34 people have died and 50
are severely wounded due to landslides, flash floods and other damages
caused by heavy rains associated to the winter wave. The National
Emergency Agency reported that an estimated 37,000 Colombians were
affected. Colombian authorities have declared 15 of the 32 provinces on
alert due to the non-stop rain affecting the regions.

(b)  The situation was tense in the southwestern Province of Narino. On
27 March, the Colombian Institute of Geology and Mining (Ingeominas)
declared a "level two" alert due to increased activity of the Galeras
volcano. Several communities around the volcano are at high risk and
could be

evacuated. Temporary shelters have been created by the Colombian
Government in Pasto and other municipalities.  WFP has made emergency
plan in case the volcano erupts and emergency humanitarian aid is
required.  WFP Colombia intends to install a new satellite Office in
this province as part of PRRO 10366.

(c)  Displacements were reported in the Province of Bolivar. some 15
families fleed from rural areas of Maria la Baja (Province of Bolivar)
due to threats issued by illegal armed groups. Most of these families
are temporarily settled in the outskirts of Cartagena. WFP Cartagena is
evaluating the situation in order to provide emergency food aid.

(d)  According to the Presidential Agency for Social Action (Accion
Social) office, an estimated 220 people were displaced last week in the
Province of Antioquia: Municipalities of Betania, Granada, Montebello,
Narino, Anori, Santa Barbara, Canas Gordas, Chigorodo and Vigia del
Fuerte. An estimated 60 displaced people are temporarily settled in the
municipal and in need of humanitarian assistance.

(e)  A WFP convoy delivered emergency food aid to 9 indigenous
communities in Province of Antioquia. This was done with Cooperating
Partners: the Catholic Church, UNHCR and the UN Office for the
Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs.

(f)  The security situation remained tense in various provinces of
Colombia. For WFP activities in the Province of Antioquia were
temporarily suspended.

(g)  The security situation was tense in the Province of Norte de
Santander. Rebels have declared this part of the province a no-drive
zone and have burned some vehicles to retaliate. An estimated 900 people
approximately from Santa Ines, Miralindo, el Safarito, La Nueve,
Santana, Rio Negro, Junin, el Diamante and Murillo were affected by the
blockade.

(h)  Under the Protracted And Relief and Recovery Operation (PRRO)
10366, "Assistance to People Displaced by Violence", WFP provided 589
tons of food in 11 provinces reaching to 64,322 beneficiaries,
especially in, Food-for-Work, Food-for Training, School and Preschool
Feeding, Nursing and Expectant Mothers and Emergency Food Aid.


(3) Cuba

(a)  Drought persists in the eastern provinces; including the Province
of Camaguey.

(b)  Distribution under Emergency Operation (EMOP) 10423.0 continued
during the reporting period (20-30 March). 544 tons of vegetable oil,
893 tons of rice, 653 tons of black beans, were delivered to Guantanamo,
Santiago de Cuba, Granma province, and Eastern provinces.  Procurement
of 233 tons of vegetable oil and 368 tons of beans through WFP regional
office has just been requested to cover urgent needs for one month.

(c)  EMOP 10423.0 is resourced at 20% thanks to WFP multilaterals and
Japanese funding. The operation also received IRA 1.2 million. US$
2,953,800 is urgently needed to meet outstanding requirements.

(d)  Drought persists in the eastern provinces including the Province of
Camaguey; meanwhile, overall rainfall levels continue to be lower than
average for the period.


(4) Guatemala

(a)  WFP and Cooperating Partners during the regular food monitors
meetings presented parameters for implementing Food-for-Work (FFW)
activities for the next distribution. The participants provided to WFP
their contributions to update a document that will be the base for
creating awareness in the communities selected for the FFW. Food
monitors were in San Marcos, Quetzaltenango and Jutiapa to follow-up on
food distributions.

(b)  In the Department of Huehuetenango, Front for the defense of
Guatemalan women's rights (CODEFEM) expressed their willingness to
participate in Emergency Operation (EMOP) 10497. WFP is coordinating
with National Fund for Peace (FONAPAZ) in order to involve them in the
implementation of next distribution.

(c)  During the period (20-30 March), a total of 7,241 families were
assisted with 619 tons of food in 6 departments: Escuintla, Jutiapa, San
Marcos, Santa Rosa, Chimaltenango and Quetzaltenango.

(d)  A total of 489 tons of food was delivered from March 23-29 to the
Departments of Chimaltenango, Escuintla, Jutiapa, and San Marcos.

(e)  During the reporting period, the EMOP 10497 borrowed 50 tons of
food commodities from the Country Programme 10092, prolonging pipeline
breaks. 515 tons were repaid by the EMOP 10497. The amount resourced was
at US$ 8,140,737 or 57.7 percent of the appealed made to the
international community last October 2005.


(5) Nicaragua

(a)  The labor conflict in the health sector continued without a
solution. As a result, medical attention at public health centers has
not been provided since the 18th of January. The situation has affected
WFP assistance to the vulnerable groups. WFP continues monitoring the
situation.

(b)  Under the Protracted Relief and Recovery Operation (PRRO) 10212, an
estimated 56,700 school children in the Northern Autonomous Atlantic
Region (RAAN) are benefiting under the Food-for-Education programme. Due
to the prolonged medical labor conflict, a reduced number of Mother and
Child Health Care beneficiaries receiving food rations. An estimated 994
pregnant and lactating women and, 1,670 children under the age of two
are benefiting from the food distributions.

(c)  WFP urgently needs resources to avoid pipeline break and continue
to provide assistance to families living in the remote areas. The PRRO
10212.0 will experience shortfalls for the next six months, beginning in
April, of 726 tons, 1,114 tons of maize, 204 tons of beans and 136 tons
of vegetable oil.


(6) Peru

(a)  During the reporting period (20-30 March), heavy rains in the
Lambayeque Region damaged crops and many families were affected in the
Province of Lambayeque.  The National Food Aid Program intends to
distribute 10 kilo food bags to the affected families.

Note: All tonnage figures in this report refer to metric tons


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