WFP Emergency Report
Issued weekly by the United Nations World Food Programme
Report No. 9 / 2006 - Date 03 March 2006


This report includes:

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



(A) Highlights

(a)  In Pakistan, despite the grounding of UN flights due to the cartoon
protests earlier in February, WFP distributed 16,814 tons of food to 1,
047,579 beneficiaries.

(b)  The humanitarian situation continues to be of great concern in
Somali region and Borena zone of Oromiya region in Ethiopia, and is
likely to deteriorate further with the progressing dry "Jilal" season.

(c)  In Somalia, some 4,000 tons have just been distributed to 170,000
beneficiaries in Lower Juba and Gedo region and another 1,000 tons will
be distributed shortly in Bay and Bakool regions.



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

(1) Occupied Palestinian Territories

(a)  There are clear signs of mounting violence in oPt. This month has
seen a significant increase in hostilities in the West Bank, Gaza Strip
and Israel, and internal violence in oPt. Security threats of kidnapping
against foreigners and national staff of International organisations
have increased in Gaza and the West Bank. Karni Crossing was closed from
the 1st-5th and from the 21st-28th of February owing to security
concerns. As a result, the Gaza mills have run out of wheat grain
directly impacting WFP operations, and prices of basic commodities
showed an increase by 10-15 percent.  Erez Terminal, the passenger
crossing point from Israel into Gaza Strip, was closed for two days
following a barrage of attacks in early February. UN National Staff are
currently unable to cross through Erez crossing owing to security
procedures. UN national staff in the West Bank also faced increased
access restrictions.

(b)  Many major donors are threatening to disengage themselves from the
Palestinian National Authority (PNA). WFP is concerned that a reduction
in donor support to Palestinians may lead to deterioration of the
humanitarian situation in oPt. If further donations do not materialize
soon, WFP will be forced to reduce the level of food assistance to the
population as of May 2006. WFP is conducting multi-sector contingency
planning to prepare for all eventualities of the humanitarian and
financial situation. WFP has also taken the pre-emptive step of
establishing two separate pipelines to handle programmes implemented
through the Ministry or otherwise.

(c)  A new Palestinian Prime Minister, Ismail Haniya, has been appointed
and is in the process of convening his Government. This process is
expected to be completed around the end of March, just after the Israeli
elections.

(d)  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 Cooperating
Partners (CPs).

(e)  Under the Social Hardship Case programme, distributions and work
projects went on normally. In the West Bank, over 7,114 chronically poor
families received about 700 tons of mixed food commodities for the
November-December allocation. This completes the second distribution
cycle since the beginning of the PRRO. In the Gaza Strip, some 9,981
chronically poor families received about 1000 tons of mixed food
commodities for the January-February allocation.

(f)  Under the Food-for-Work and Food-for-Training Programme, in the
West Bank, about 24,105 New Poor families received over 2,723 tons of
mixed food commodities in February. The current phase of FFW and FFT
implemented by CRS and CHF was completed in Hebron, Bethlehem, Nablus
and Jenin. The preparations for the next phase have already started. In
addition, over 100 training sessions were held with women.  In the Gaza
Strip, distributions are ongoing. MOA Bedouin selection has been
completed in the South and is ongoing in the Middle areas. FFW
activities with landless daily wage -earners are on-going as per
activity plan.

(g)  Under the Institutional Feeding Programme, WFP visited new
institutions that were previously targeted by UNRWA but are now covered
by WFP in accordance with the new WFP-UNWRA agreement. The next food
distribution to institutions will be in mid-March.

(h)  Preparatory meetings were held in West Bank and Gaza Strip with FAM
and CPs to plan International Women's Day celebrations and contingency
planning. CHF Gaza Strip, funded by WFP, have developed a beneficiary
database to be shared with the MOA. The database is currently under
joint pilot testing.

(i)  WFP maps for West Bank and Gaza Strip of intervention versus food
insecurity were completed.

(j)  As a result of the Karni closure, the Palestinian Ministry of
Economy reported that the flow of commodities between the Gaza Stip and
Israel is "of great concern". WFP monitoring in the past weeks has shown
a shortage of basic commodities in Gaza Strip and West Bank and an
increase in prices of some basic commodities. In the mid-term, price
changes will have a negative impact on purchasing power of low income
families.

(k)  The oPt SPR Exercise 2005 has been completed. Commodity purchases
are ongoing locally and internationally. WFP have developed two separate
pipelines to manage the new donor constraints.

(l)  The closure of Karni interrupted WFP operations as, owing to
shortage of grain, the Gaza local mills cannot deliver the required
wheat flour quantities. WFP is in negotiations to agree an alternative
cargo entry point for the humanitarian cargo into Gaza Strip.

(m)  The contracted West Bank mill is fully operational, supplying WFP
with around 4,400 tons of WHF to cover West Bank beneficiary needs for
the period of March/April2006. Iodized salt production and delivery is
ongoing to meet the allocation requirements until the end of March.

(n)  WFP met with representatives of UNICEF, UNDP, OCHA, WHO, and UNESCO
in West Bank and Gaza Strip to discuss inter -agency contingency
planning. VAM and UNRWA have agreed to conduct a joint mapping exercise
of UNRWA and WFP interventions.


(2) Pakistan

(a)  During the reporting period (22-28 February), nationwide protest
rallies continued. The situation remains volatile and could deteriorate
when US President George W. Bush visits Pakistan on the 4th of March.
Islamabad will be sealed off during the President visit. The opposition
and the main protest group, the Muttahida Majlis-e-ammal (MMA) have
announced nationwide demonstrations this weekend. On the 24th of
February, 25,000 people demonstrated in Lahore and some 15,000 policemen
and 3000 paramilitary troops were deployed to patrol the streets.The
demonstrations have hindered UN operations and movement in some parts of
the country and the security cell continue to issue security advisories
to all staff.

(b)  The snowline has receded significantly since its maximum on the
19th of January and no significant further snowfall is forecast at the
moment. However, heavy rain has hampered relief efforts and caused fatal
landslides to the local population and UN staff. Several main roads
remain blocked..

(c)  Despite the grounding of UN flights due to the cartoon protests
earlier in February, WFP distributed 16,814 tons of food to 1, 047,579
beneficiaries, 106 percent of total requirement for February.

(d)  Food distribution for the month of February has been completed in
seven Union Councils (UCs) in Bagh. The two remaining UCs have been
covered up to 80 percent. Food distribution to 16 camps was completed
for 7,622 beneficiaries and an estimated 162 tons of mixed food
distributed. The security situation remained calm in the district and
operational areas. However, as per advice of the Government, UNDSS in
Bagh disallowed staff movements on 24 February (Friday) as a
precautionary measure. A few peaceful processions around the city were
organised by local politicians. Call forward of food for March
distribution has already been initiated and taking stock balances into
account, it consists of 1,800 tons of wheat flour. Vegetable oil and
pulses are in sufficient quantities to cover the food requirements for
March. Distribution for UC Baidi to 11,350 beneficiaries for March will
commence on the 6th of March and to be completed through helicopter
operations.

(e)  In Ghari Habibullah, an estimated 309 tons food was dispatched.
Supplementary feeding program initiated with the partnership of Action
Against Hunger. 12 tons of food was dispatched for four Supplementary
Feeding centers for four months in Mansehra and Balakot as per agreed
proposal. In February WFP sub-office's total caseload in tented camps
was 44,068 tons. A meeting was held with the Regional Relief
Commissioner this week to discuss the WFP remaining caseload for camps
for February. At the meeting, it was agreed that out of February's
remaining balance of 6,468 people, the Havelian camp be provided to
6,088 beneficiaries. Food distributions have been completed for the
month of February in Balakot, Satbani, Gahnool and Hungrai UCs. Food
dispatches to Kawai and Mahandri UCs could not be completed due to road
closures and landslides.

(f)  During the reporting period, 1,354 tons of mixed food commodities
were distributed to 38,172 beneficiaries in Battagram (Allai), Mansehra
(Kala Dhaka) Shangla and Kohistan. 410 tons of mixed food commodities
from Battagram, 287 tons from Chattarplain and 88 tons from Abbotabad
warehouse were dispatched to Allai, Palas, Dassu, Kala Dhaka and Alpuri
Tehsils. Last week, security measures was upgraded and all vehicles
moving out of Battagram are required to have police or military escort.
This has reduced WFP transport capacity. Weather conditions continued to
be unfavorable, heavy rain on the 24th and 25th of February caused road
closed by landslides. Meanwhile, on the 26th of February a small
quantity dispatches to Maidan Camp in Battagram was possible. Also
deliveries from Peshawar was interrupted. A sustainable return strategy
has been worked out for Battagram district focusing on assistance in the
organized return of IDPs from planned camps, and assistance in the
return of spontaneous IDPs from both inside and outside the district. In
Chatter Plain, no air operations could be undertaken for two days as a
result of bad weather. Introduction of helicopter sling use for both
food and NFI was undertaken.

(g)  WFP consultated AJK Government on the upcoming Protracted Relief
and Recovery Operation (PRRO). The Australian High Commissioner to
Pakistan visited WFP Muzaffarabad to see the sling operations undertaken
by the Australian Black Hawks. She visited WFP airport warehouses and
flew to Danna Machiara to observe distributions. General food
distributions for the month of February is almost completed.
Pre-positioning for March has started in some UCs. Air dispatches as
well as road deliveries were disrupted on the 25th and 26th of February
due to unfavorable weather conditions. Food deliveries by air to
Banamula (area declared No-Go in December 2005) have resumed.

(h)  The Emergency Operation (EMOP) is resourced 71 percent against the
appeal. Currently, UNHAS funding is due to run out very soon and US$24
million is urgently needed to maintain the helicopter 'lifeline'
operation, the largest relief helicopter operation in UN history, until
the end of August to assist thousands of victims of last year's
earthquake. 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 March and 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.

(i)  The deliveries from the hubs to extended delivery points from the
20 - 26th of February 2006 amount to 3,251 tons, out of which 740 tons
were delivered by air.

(j)  20 UNHAS helicopters are currently operational and flying when the
weather allows it. In addition, UNHAS is on a day to day basis tasking
four US helicopters and two NATO helicopters bringing the total air
assets under UNHAS tasking to 26. Since the start of the air operations
UNHAS has airlifted 15,799 tons of Food Items, 4,045 tons Non-food Items
and 27,326 passengers.


(3) Russian Federation (Caucasus)

(a)  During the reporting period (16-28 February), kidnapping and low
level conflicts resulting in the death of servicemen and militants
continued in Chechnya and neighbouring republics. On the 27th of
February in Nazran, Ingushetia, the President's father-in-law was
kidnapped. At the end of February, the Council of Europe's Human Rights
Commissioner in a statement asked the Danish Refugee Council (DRC) to
resume its operations in Chechnya. DRC suspended activities in Chechnya
in the beginning of February following the suspension of DRC in the
region.

(b)  During the reporting period, there was no general relief
distribution either in Chechnya or Ingushetia due to lack of food
commodities and a break in the pipeline. The monitoring of the situation
conducted in both republics showed a need of food aid. Many IDPs have
requested WFP to resume relief distribution.

(c)  During the reporting period, WFP through its Cooperating Partner,
CPHC, distributed an estimated 15 tons of food to 210 Food-For-Work
(FFW) beneficiaries for the works implemented in November and to 183 FFW
beneficiaries for December. No FFW projects were undertaken in February
due to the current shortage of food. The Food-for- Education (FFE)
programme was implemented in 401 schools in Chechnya to provide High
Energy Biscuits (HEB) to 135,000 schoolchildren.

(d)  Under the IMC/WFP Food-for-Training project, 45 trainees continued
vocational courses in Chechnya and Ingushetia. They will receive food
upon completion of the courses. WFP also provided the Dining Hall
project with an estimated 13 tons of food. WFP jointly with the Local
Government and Caritas are preparing to set up 4 new canteens in all
districts of Grozny City. WFP also supported the TB project by providing
an estimated 10 tons of food to 337 TB patients in Ingushetia, and an
estimated 12 tons of food to 349 TB patients in Chechnya.

(e)  WFP has appealed for urgently needed funds to resume basic food
distribution for thousands of people in Chechnya and Ingushetia. Three
months ago, WFP suspended general relief distribution due to
insufficient funds. WFP has received only 12 percent of the US$22
million needed for its ongoing twelve-month operation.



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

(1) Burundi

(a)  Hostilities between the army and the remaining fighting movement
National Liberation Forces (FNL) prevailed in Bubanza and Bujumbura
Rural provinces. Moreover, armed banditry continued to be reported.

(b)  Rwandans continued to cross the border into Burundi in search of
alleged asylum. Some reports also indicate that they are fleeing hunger
in the southern part of Rwanda, which is part of the Bugesera natural
region currently affected by food shortage in both Burundi and Rwanda.
The same information is also spread regarding Burundians crossing into
Tanzania.

(c)  WFP continued the distribution of seeds protection rations (SPR) to
support the agricultural season 2006B. Thus far, a total of 3,585 tons
out of the planned 5,428 tons have been distributed in fourteen
provinces. Between 20 and 26 February, WFP distributed 1,424 tons of
food aid to 262,614 beneficiaries.

(d)  Insects' attacks on beans, peanuts and rice have been reported in
Bubanza province where important farming grounds are already
devastated.. Other diseases destroying cereals (maize and rice) were
also reported in one commune of Rutana and Ruyigi provinces. The
continuous outbreak of new plant diseases is another important factor
that complicates the current food shortages in the country, especially
because they affect the most fertile regions.

(e)  WFP urgently needs deliveries of food commodities to respond to the
SPR and food crisis requirements.


(2) Congo, DR

(a)  A joint mission of the Executive Directors of WFP and UNICEF as
well as the High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) visited the DRC
during the reporting period. Several joint projects of the three
agencies, including nutrition, school feeding and education programmes,
activities supporting returnees and orphans and vulnerable children were
visited. The WFP Executive Director also met with staff of the Country
Office and Kinshasa sub office before proceeding to South Kivu, where
the team ended its tour of DRC.

(b)  In South Kivu, the United Nations Mission in the Democratic
Republic of Congo (MONUC)-backed Congolese army launched an attack on
the position of the Forces Democratiques de la Liberation du Rwanda
(FDLR) rebels in the Kahuzi-Biega Park, territory of Bunyakiri.
Meanwhile, the President of DRC visited Bukavu and instructed the
military commanders of both North and South Kivu to reinforce their
military operational capacities in order to restore calm in the
provinces. However, international NGOs working in Bunyakiri had earlier
evacuated due to constant harassment and threat by the FDLR.

(c)  In North Kivu, a dispute in Goma between elements of the 8th
military regiment and guards of the governor of North Kivu resulted in
an exchange of gunfire, leaving five soldiers dead. There is still high
level of insecurity in the territory of Rutshuru due to frequent attacks
by troops of Laurent Nkunda and FDLR rebels on Forces Armees de la
Republique Democratique du Congo (FARDC) positions. As a result, about
84 houses in Katwiguru (Rutshuru) were burned down by troops of the 5th
military brigade; the owners of the properties were accused of conniving
with the FDLR.

(d)  Both MONUC and Congolese military troops are preparing to launch an
offensive on militia troops in Tcheyi, Irumu territory, after
sensitising the population to disassociate with the rebels.  Four
assembly points have been established for populations fleeing the
eventual clashes. Meanwhile, the UN agencies working in the region are
concerned about respect for universal laws (by opposing troops)
regarding the protection of civilians and wounded people during
fighting.

(e)  In Maniema province, the local government has officially declared
an outbreak of measles in the health zone of Kindu.

(f)  In South Kivu, around 380 tons of assorted food commodities were
delivered to Cooperating Partners (CPs) for distribution to
beneficiaries of nutrition programmes, school feeding and vulnerable
feeding activities. In North Kivu, WFP sub offices in Goma and Beni
dispatched together nearly 390 tons to CPs for 51,300 beneficiaries of
various feeding activities. A total of 80 tons of food were distributed
to 5,496 beneficiaries of different programmes in Bunia.


(3) Eritrea

(a)  The UN and some NGOs have started to work on the Common
Humanitarian Action Plan (CHAP) in anticipation to respond to the
unfavourable weather conditions in the Horn of Africa including Eritrea.
Sectoral Working Groups have been established and started planning in
their respective area.

(b)  According to WFP field offices, some indications of food insecurity
have been reported in most regions due to government's restrictions on
the free flow of grains and the unwillingness of farmers to sell their
outputs to the Eritrean Grain Board. High price of food commodities and
the limited purchasing power of poor households are already apparent.

(c)  Reportedly the number of children visiting the health centres
(Shieb, Northern Red Sea Region) has increased since October 2005 and
many children were reported with diseases such as Kwashiorkor and
Marasmus. According to the health assistant working in this area, part
of the problem is attributed to overall food shortages.

(d)  Some schools under the WFP School Feeding Programme (Dankur,
Northern Red Sea Region) are facing water shortages for cooking due to
insufficient winter rainfalls since October 2005; they were forced to
truck water from Asmara 60 km away.

(e)  Contributions registered under the PRRO 10192.1, have reached US$
51.5 million, covering almost 25 percent of the total food requirements
of the project. Further food deliveries to Eritrea are kept in abeyance
at the request of WFP.


(4) Ethiopia

(a)  The humanitarian situation continues to be of great concern in
Somali region and Borena zone of Oromiya region, and is likely to
deteriorate further with the progressing dry "Jilal" season. High levels
of livestock migration in search of water and better pasture is commonly
observed during WFP field missions, as is lack of water, health care and
food. Market conditions are also not favourable for the pastoralists due
to lack of external demand. Some showers of rain have reportedly been
falling in Gode district of Gode zone, Somali region on 25 February and
in Moyale, Hudet and Filtu district of Liban zone of the same region
from 25-27 February.. Light rainfall has also been reported in
Kabridahar, Shilabo, Debeweyin and Shekosh districts of Korahe zone of
Somali Region and in Borena zone of Oromiya region. While the rainfall
is bringing some relief to the water shortage of the communities, it is
too early to estimate whether this indicates the beginning of the "Gu"
rainfall season, which usually is from late-March to early-June.

(b)  The Government's Disaster Prevention and Preparedness Agency (DPPA)
continues the daily dispatches of WFP relief food for some 1.5 million
people in Somali region, and some 155,000 in Borena zone of Oromiya
region. As of 1 March, the DPPA has completed transporting 19,200 tons
of food to Somali region from the food allocations of 29,100 tons made
in January (ie 66 percent has been dispatched); dispatches are being
made to over 540 distribution points in Somali region alone. The
deliveries are also ongoing to Borena zone of Oromiya region: 5,500 tons
out of 6,000 tons allocated in January have been transported (ie 90
percent has been dispatched). The transport capacity for deliveries of
relief food for Somali region had been limited in January and early
February; however, in order to increase the dispatch rate, DPPA has
engaged their emergency transport fleet and the Road Transport Authority
are now coordinating the commercial transport fleet for priority loads
to the drought-affected areas. WFP has increased its monitoring capacity
in order to better track the food movements and distributions. WFP has
sub offices in Jijiga and Gode for monitoring Somali region where
dedicated food monitors are based. The sub office in Nazareth covers
Oromiya region and a field monitor has been deployed to Borena zone on
permanent basis to monitor the food security situation and food
distribution.

(c)  Coordination of interventions are ongoing both at regional and
federal level. The DPPA convened a donor consultation in Addis Ababa on
22 February. Particular concern was raised on the lack of response for
the non-food requirements of the Appeal. There was concern about the
supplies of fortified blended food - such as corn soya blend (CSB) and
famix - but WFP estimates that the combination of local production,
re-blending, and CSB in-transit should be able to keep pace with the
requirements and dispatches of blanket supplementary food as well as for
targeted supplementary feeding. WFP's estimations are based on forecasts
of production performance from local factories and scheduled arrival of
vessels.

(d)  The overall resource situation for relief food for WFP remains
encouraging; there are also indications of bilateral contributions for
local purchase of relief food for 2006 to the DPPA.  The current
estimate of food requirements for relief rations and blanket/targeted
supplementary feeding is 375,000 tons under the 2006 Joint Government
and Humanitarian Partners Appeal, and 282,000 tons (76 percent) is
already covered by carryover stocks confirmed contributions currently in
transit.  Thus, relief food requirements are covered until the end of
May. Further contributions will have to be confirmed to cover
requirements beyond May and additional food requirements for the
July-December period are anticipated following the "Belg" season and
pastoral areas assessment in June. The resource situation for the
"non-food" sectors of the Appeal (health and nutrition, water and
environmental sanitation, agriculture, disaster response and
coordination) remains critical with confirmed contributions only
covering around 12 percent of requirements as of late February.


(5) Rwanda

(a)  In Bugesera, UNICEF conducted with health authorities a rapid
assessment on the nutritional status of children under five in three
most affected areas: Mayenge, Ngenda and Gashora. Out of 552 children
that have been assessed, 35 children (6 percent) are severe malnourished
and 16 of them presented oedema; 96 children (17 percent) are moderate
malnourished and 405 children showed a good nutritional status.

(b)  WFP visited Bugesera on 23 February. Very few people seem to afford
to buy the required food commodities due to limited purchasing power and
high prices. Lower prices were reported for animals, mainly goats,
perhaps due to distress sales. Used roofing iron sheets were being sold
at commercial centres and in a number of houses roofs had been recently
removed, suggesting that the households had resorted to selling the
roofing materials.

(c)  WFP's visit to Ruhuha nutritional centre confirmed an increase of
admissions for children under-five and adults. The management of the
centre complained that adults are reluctant to go back home after
treatment/recovery at the therapeutic centre, arguing that they have not
fully recovered or have nothing to eat at home.

(d)  Currently WFP is planning to address the most urgent food
insecurity issues in the most affected areas through joint WFP/UNICEF
food/nutritional interventions where UNICEF establishes therapeutic
feeding; increasing food/nutritional intervention in the centres
currently already assisted by WFP; and initiating a few Food-for-Work
(FFW) projects in Bugesera.

(e)  A total of 49 asylum seekers were received in Nkamira transit camp
and 20 urban refugees were transferred to Nyabiheke camp, which
increased the number of Congolese refugees in Rwanda to 40,780.
Burundian refugee camps remained stable and the figure currently stands
at 2,570 refugees.

(f)  The distribution of around 730 tons of food in Kiziba, Gihembe,
Nyabiheke and Nyamure camps was finalized.

(g)  A total 160 returnees from DRC crossed the border to Rwanda through
Nkamira transit centre and received a three-month repatriation package
before being transferred to their home communities.


(6) Somalia

(a)  Fighting erupted in Garowe in Puntland and as a result all UN
International Staff members have been evacuated. UN Department of Safety
& Security (UNDSS) is monitoring the situation.

(b)  Some 4,000 tons of the 5,000 tons borrowed by WFP from Sudan have
just been distributed to 170,000 beneficiaries in Lower Juba and Gedo
region.. The remaining 1,000 tons will be distributed shortly in Bay and
Bakool regions.

(c)  Another 5,700 tons are being transported to Bay, Bakol and Lower
Juba regions. Distribution will commence as soon as food is delivered.
Additionally, a plan has been finalised for distribution of, 5,200 tons
for Hiran and Bay regions. Out of the total, loading of 2,800 tons will
commence this week.

(d)  WFP's advocacy and sensitisation campaigns among drought-affected
communities in preparation of relief distributions have been completed
in Lower Juba, Middle Juba, Bay, Bakool and Gedo. Elders, community
members, local and regional administrations actively participated.

(e)  Norwegian Church Aid (NCA), World Vision International, Somali NGOs
AFREC and HIMILO Foundation and the Community Based Organization (CBO)
Juba Shine have signed Field Level Agreements (FLAs) with WFP and will
be WFP partners for relief food distributions.

(f)  After several meetings, WFP, Care International and ICRC have
tentatively agreed on the area coverage for relief food distribution.
Bilateral discussion is ongoing in sharing implementation details.

(g)  Considering the deteriorating malnutrition situation in South and
Central Somalia, the Health and Nutrition Cluster has recommended
blanket supplementary distribution of blended fortified food among
vulnerable groups (children under five, pregnant and lactating mothers)
in an increased quantity. WFP is looking at possibilities to increase
the CSB ration as part of the general food distribution.

(h)  The February 2005 Food Security Analysis Unit (FSAU) Nutrition
Update indicates that Global Acute Malnutrition (GAM) among Internally
Displaced Populations (IDPs) in Wajid Town is as high as 27 percent. WFP
has made the distribution of food to IDPs in need as one of its top
priorities, since some time ago.

(i)  Available WFP food stocks and confirmed new funding now amount to
78,000 tons out of the total 95,000 tons to cover needs until July
2006.. Therefore, the unmet requirement is some 17,000 tons until the
end of July 2006 (valued at about US$13 million). Depending on the
performance of the upcoming long rains, subsequent requirements for food
aid to cover needs until the end of the year will be between 25,000 and
85,000 tons.


(7) Tanzania

(a)  WFP continues to be concerned about the health condition of the
more than 4,000 new arrivals from Burundi accommodated in Kibondo's
three way stations. The facilities are intended to cater for less than a
hundred persons and only for a couple of days. Since the beginning of
the year, nine persons have died in the way stations of various
illnesses and malnutrition. The majority of the new arrivals are waiting
to appear before the Ad Hoc Committee, the Government body determining
whether they qualify for refugee status in Tanzania.

(b)  WFP is distributing full rations of 2,100 Kcal to the new arrivals
at the way stations. The distribution is done on a ten-day cycle.
Medical staff from IRC is providing health screening to primarily
children and pregnant and lactating mothers in the way stations. It has
been reported that a number of children have visible signs of
malnutrition. Some of the malnourished children are referred to the
refugee camp hospitals where WFP provides therapeutic and supplementary
feeding to the children.

(c)  The number of new arrivals to Tanzania continues to increase. From
the 1st - 20th of February 2006, a preliminary figure of 4,751 newly
arrived refugees was recorded in western Tanzania.

(d)  Repatriation trends remain significantly low. UNHCR has confirmed
that a total of 696 Burundian refugees and 2,813 DRC refugees
repatriated from Tanzania to Burundi from the 1 - 21 February 2006.

(e)  The WFP refugee operation (PRRO) is back on full rations and
provides refugees with a daily intake of 2,100 Kcal, which is 100
percent of the approved ration level.

(f)  General distribution covers 359,219 registered refugees. During the
reporting week, WFP distributed 1,675 tons of food through general
distribution, supplementary and therapeutic feeding in refugee camps in
western Tanzania. Around 11,200 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 and
Food-for-Training.

(g)  No new contributions were received during the reporting period. A
shortfall of 27,500 tons (US$ 16.4 million) exists up to the end of
December 2006.


(8) Uganda

(a)  Presidential and Parliamentary elections were held in Uganda on the
23 February 2006, resulting in the re-election of President Museveni to
a further 5-year term of office. The main opposition candidate, Dr.
Kizza Besigye has rejected the results and is appealing to the
Constitutional Court. Final reports from election observer missions are
awaited. The security situation has remained relatively calm in the post
election period.

(b)  Over 6,000 families in Anaka Internally Displaced Camp (IDP) camp
in Gulu District received WFP emergency rations following a fire
outbreak that razed 5,700 huts between 5 and 15 February. WFP, in
collaboration with the Gulu District Disaster Management Committee, OCHA
and International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC), will conduct fire
prevention/mitigation training in 10 IDP camps in Gulu District.

(c)  The United Nations Country Team (UNCT) is finalizing a revision of
the Consolidated Inter-agency Appeal 2006 (CAP). No increase in food
needs is envisaged. The revision will focus on improving sector
coordination through the cluster approach being implemented in Uganda.

(d)  The Government and the UN are finalising the planning and
coordination of the return of some 50,000 IDPs in the coming months in
Lira district.. WFP will supply three-month return rations to all those
who wish to voluntarily leave the IDP camps.  UNHCR, in its role as lead
of the protection cluster for IDPs, will coordinate the process.

(e)  WFP food distribution continues to reach 1.45 million displaced
persons, 165,000 refugees and other vulnerable persons. During the past
week, WFP distributed 3,817 tons of relief food assistance to 417,193
persons including IDPs sheltering in camps in Gulu, Kitgum, Pader and
Lira districts, refugees, children in nutrition centres and other
vulnerable persons.

(f)  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 be 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 rise significantly and the death rates of young
children would increase rapidly.

(g)  WFP pipeline shortfall through December 2006 currently stands at
73,000 tons with pipeline breaks anticipated in June 2006.



(D) West Africa: (1) Cameroon (2) Cote d'Ivoire (3) Guinea (4) Liberia

(1) Cameroon

(a)  The preliminary results of a joint Government, WFP, FAO and UNICEF
food security assessment mission in Northern Cameroon show a
satisfactory 2005-2006 rainy season leading to a normal rain-fed crop
production.  The mission took place from the 13th to 24th of February in
the Adamaoua, North and Far North provinces. It indicates that in some
areas, early cessation of rains resulted in the poor performance of the
dry season crops.

(b)  Due to the relatively high number of traders intervening in
Northern Cameroon commodity markets since the beginning of the harvest,
food prices are above their normal level for this time of the year.
These interventions would result in a significant reduction in food
availability in particular during the "hunger season".

(c)  The mission recommends that local authorities take conservative
measures to safeguard market supply in order to keep food prices at a
level acceptable to the rural population.

(d)  A mission, headed by WFP Cameroon Country Director, Mrs Fatma
Samoura, is currently assessing the impact of some of the 33 village
granaries set-up last year by WFP in the Logone and Chari division. The
granaries provide rural communities with small food stocks to help them
mitigate the effect of food shortages in the region. Mrs Samoura is also
visiting schools assisted by WFP through its country programme.

(e)  The Emergency Operation (EMOP) 10474, "Food Assistance to
Populations Affected by Drought in the Division of the Logone and Chari
(Far North Province)", was extended for five months from the 28th of
February to 31st ofJuly 2006. Logone and Chari was affected by serious
food shortages due to poor and irregular rains during the 2004-2005
agricultural season. EMOP 10474 has so far received a total of US$1.5
million out of the US$2.1 million required to provide food assistance to
over 237,000 people for one month.

(f)  In October 2005, due to funding shortage, 1,197 tons of maize was
distributed instead of the planned 2,853 tons. New donations will allow
food distribution to vulnerable groups in the Logone and Chari division
(Cameroon Far North division). Food is being purchased locally and
distributions are planned for May 2006, the beginning of the "hunger
season".


(2) Cote d'Ivoire

(a)  During the reporting period (22 February-01 March), the security
situation improved but still remained unpredictable. The international
community is particularly concerned about the Moyen Cavally region
(Guiglo - Duekoue - Toulepleu - Zouan Hounien) further to the absence of
UN peacekeepers and the recent incidents between the Ivorian soldiers
and the French army inside the zone of confidence. Security
recommendations to UN staff remained unchanged. Caution and high
vigilance is advised all over the country.

(b)  On the 28th of February, four Cote d'Ivoire leaders (President
Gbagbo, Bedie, Ouattara and Soro) met for the first time in the country
since 2002 conflict. The meeting marked a breakthrough in the peace
process. The leaders agreed to meet frequently to discuss the peace
process and ensure a peaceful political climate. They also agreed that
citizens without identity cards would be able to get new ones when
voters register for elections, efforts should be made to calm incendiary
reporting by local media, the post of a fourth vice-president for the
Independent Electoral Commission could be created to balance out
representation and that Military chiefs from both sides would meet to
arrange disarmament.

(c)  According to the National Service for Support and Assistance to
Refugees and Stateless Persons (SAARA), an estimated 25,000 refugees
will be repatriated to Liberia in 2006, as well as the refugees
sheltered in the transit centre in Tabou that is scheduled to be closed
by April 2006.

(d)  School examinations for BAC and BEPC started on the 27th of
February as scheduled in the Forces Nouvelles zones. The supervision of
examination centres is ensured by joint teams with UNPOL, FN and UN or
other international organisations staff.

(e)  During the reporting period, WFP delivered a total of 520 tons food
to 92,751 beneficiaries.

(f)  As part of the 2006/2007 agriculture programme, WFP and FAO joint
preliminary assessment mission continued in the 18 Montagnes region.
Bangolo, Sipilou, Sangouine and Danane areas were visited. The
monitoring of nutritional activities in Bouake and Brobo showed that
Cooperating Partners are improving in taking care of moderate
malnutrition cases.

(g)  As of the 1st of March, the regional Protracted Relief and Recovery
Operation (PRRO),Cote d'Ivoire, Burkina, Ghana, Mali has received a
total of 37.1 million US dollars against the operational needs of 50.1
million US dollars (26 percent shortfall or 12.9 million US dollars
against operational requirements).


(3) Guinea

(a)  During the reporting period (6- 19 February), cases of attacks on
private houses and businesses continued to be reported, especially
during nighttime. Cote d'Ivoire - Guinea border points were reported
calm. On the 17th of February, fuel prices increased. No violent
reactions from the population have been reported yet.

(b)  Under the Protracted Relief and Recovery Operation (PRRO), 460 tons
of food was distributed to 37,923 beneficiaries.

(c)  A total of 1,555 Liberian refugees were voluntary repatriated
during the reporting period. WFP provided hot meals for the refugees.

(d)  WFP assists an estimated 52,000 individuals in refugee camps, 3,003
refugees from Ivory Coast and the rest from Liberia.

(e)  During February's General Food Distributions, 2,961 refugees,
non-beneficiaries of WFP food rations, who have received refugee
certificates, were added to the WFP beneficiary list.

(f)  During the reporting period, a total of 351 tons of food was
distributed to 26,613 beneficiaries in Kouankan 1, Kola, Kountaya and
Madina camps.

(g)  On the 10th and 17th of February, joint missions were conducted to
Kola and Laine camps to sensitize beneficiaries on the coming food
distributions.

(h)  Under Emergency School Feeding (ESF), on the 17th of February, the
second trimester's food distributions to schools were completed in Beyla
prefecture. A total of 107 tons was distributed in this prefecture. Dry
take home rations were distributed to cooks and mothers of schoolgirls.

(i)  On the 9th of February, WFP N'Zerekore finalized the agreement with
the local transport syndicate for the food dispatching to schools. The
dispatch to schools in Lola prefecture started on the week of 20
February.

(j)  From the 13th to 22th of February a WFP official from school
feeding unit in headquarters visited Guinea to conduct training of
trainers for the installation and the use of monitoring satellite
devices (Argos). Guinea is one of the 15 countries participating in this
monitoring and evaluation pilot project. 152 of these devices will be
installed in schools of both country programme and PRRO.

(k)  On th 25th - 26th January, a workshop organized in Mamou by the VAM
unit of WFP Guinea. This consisted on training on tools and techniques
for emergency needs assessment. The participants included UN (UNDP,
UNICEF, WHO, OCHA, FAO and WFP) and governmental (SENAH) partners.


(4) Liberia

(a)  During the reporting period (20-26 February), the general security
situation in Liberia remained calm, with no protests or unlawful
gathering of security concern. However, criminal activities continued to
pose a threat to staff safety and security. Two cases of armed robberies
in Monrovia were reported.  Money and other personal valuables were
reported to have been taken. No one was injured but gun shots were
fired.

(b)  Three UNMIL soldiers are reported to have died of Lassa fever, and
five other cases are being observed.

(c)  On the 24th of February, a team of joint police headed by the local
Criminal Investigations Department (CID) conducted raids in various
locations in Monrovia city and arrested 13 people for illegal possession
of narcotic drugs.  The police also confiscated unknown quantities of
marijuana, cocaine, and opium.  Investigation is continuing.

(d)  Rumors of ritual killing are going round in Harper, Maryland
County, after the body of a three year old boy was found floating in the
Hoffman River, near the Harper fish market area on the 26th of February.
Investigation is in progress with a suspect arrested.

(e)  During the reporting period, WFP distributed 1,357 tons of food to
over 215,574 beneficiaries under the various feeding programmes.

(f)  Distribution of general rations to IDPs in camps continued during
the reporting period, with delivery of 103 tons to an estimated 10,752
IDPs residing in Buchanan camp, River Cess County.

(g)  WFP continued to provide food assistance to resettle IDPs and
Liberian refugees returning to their communities of origin.  During the
reporting period, a total of 1,596 facilitated and 275 spontaneous
returnees from Guinea, Nigeria, and Sierra Leone arrived in Cape Mount,
Lofa, Maryland, and Montserrado Counties.  The new arrivals received a
total of 62 tons of assorted relief food commodities as a 1st tranche
(two months ration) resettlement package.

(h)  Furthermore, distribution of the second tranche food ration which
completes the four months resettlement food package to Returnees and
de-registered IDPs continued in Montserrado, Bong, Bomi, Capemount,
Gbarpolu, Grand Gedeh and Lofa Counties.  During the reporting period,
over 8,185 beneficiaries received up to 270 tons of food.

(i)  As of 24th of February, a total of 55,406 returnees have been
repatriated by UNHCR and 306,261 persons de-registered from IDP camps
since October 2004.  Of which, some 32,406 Returnees (69.30 percent) and
234,775 IDP beneficiaries (85.30 percent) have received their four
months resettlement food package provided by WFP.

(j)  So far, 21 IDP camps have been declared closed since the beginning
of the resettlement exercise in October 2004. The number of IDPs
remaining in the camps is reported to be 23,544 persons, located in the
two IDP camps of Conneh and Buchanan. Meanwhile, de-registration of IDPs
commenced in Conneh Camp on the 21st of February. The resettlement
exercise in Liberia is planned to be completed by end of April 2006. WFP
plans to complete distribution of the second trache of resettlement
package to all returnees and de-registered IDPs by July 2006.

(k)  WFP received a consignment of 725 cartons of learning materials and
handed it over to Liberia Transition Initiative (LTI) for onward
distribution to schools. On the 1st of March, LTI in close collaboration
with WFP, Books for Africa and USAID will launch the books distribution
to USAID partner schools participating in the Accelerated Learning
Program..

(l)  A total of 867 tons of food was distributed to over 190,400 school
children through the eight WFP sub offices in Liberia. In addition, WFP
provided some Non Food Items to schools in Voinjama, including 410
drinking cups, 410 Plastic Plates and 410 table spoons. School Feeding
is currently the biggest feeding activity in the country, where up to 64
percent of the food distributed during the week was delivered to
schools.

(m)  WFP distributed a total of 13 tons of assorted food commodities to
some 1,107 persons supported under the FSLI programme in Nimba County.
Additionally, two tons was distributed under Food-for-Training (FFT) to
230 beneficiaries through Buchanan Sub office.

(n)  Assessment of more Food-for-Work (FFW) and Food-for-Training (FFT)
projects continued during the reporting period in most of the WFP
Sub-offices. Distribution of food to approved projects is expected to
commence in March. Most of the projects assessed are community based,
mainly involved in agricultural activities in areas where returnees are
being resettled.

(o)  WFP distributed a total of 40 tons of various assorted food
commodities to several institutions under the various Nutrition
Intervention Programmes.

(p)  WFP Liberia still has a total food shortfall of 6,096 tons valued
at US$ 4.7 million over the next six months, February to July 2006. The
pipeline break will start in April with cereals and a critical food
shortfall affecting the rest of the commodities will commence in June.
Additional pledges and resources are needed to avert shortfalls of 4,348
tons of cereals, 420 tons of pulses, 666 tons of CSB, 504 tons of
vegetable oil, 96 tons of Salt and 63 tons of sugar.

(q)  Food deliveries from Monrovia to various sub-offices improved
during the month of February due an increase in the capacity of
commercial transporters. Subsequently, a total of 1,686 tons of assorted
food commodities was dispatched from Monrovia during the reporting
period, in continuation of the February 2006 distribution cycle. The
commodities loaded included 1,249 of Bulgur, 135 tons of Pulses, 48 tons
of Corn Soya Blend (CSB), 90 tons of Vegetable Oil, 134 tons of Canned
Meat, 6 tons of Sugar and 23 tons of Salt.

(r)  Preparations are underway to begin the comprehensive food security
and nutrition survey countrywide.  Testing of questionnaires is being
finalized. Training of the 80 remunerators will start on the 6th of
March 06 up to 11th of March.  Data collection will commence on the 15th
of March for a period of 4 to 5 weeks.

(s)  WFP was part of the working group, led by Africare which proposed a
structure for the Food Security Cluster in Liberia. In a meeting held on
20th of February, the working group agreed that the food cluster should
comprise of a steering committee, secretariat and three technical
advisory bodies, namely CFA, ACC and the Nutrition working group.
World Vision Liberia was requested to draft the TORs of the food
cluster. A follow up meeting was scheduled for Monday, 27 February,
during which the proposals will be finalized for further review by the
Ministry of Agriculture.

(t)  A Committee on Food Aid (CFA) meeting was held on the 24th of
February and members present included representatives from EU, ICRC and
WFP. Issues discussed in the meeting included the current food pipeline
situation, resettlement update and need for revision of the TORs for CFA
to be in line with the new Food Security Cluster.

(u)  In preparation for the coming Walk the World event in May, the
Country office held the first preparation meeting on the 21st of
February, together with World Vision and Ministry of Education as the
main partners of the event this year. Various sub-committees were formed
and subsequent preparation meetings will continue.



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

(1) Lesotho

(a)  During the reporting period (22 to 28 February), WFP and
Cooperating Partners provided food to an estimated 46,000 beneficiaries.
Recipients 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)  According to the Lesotho Meteorological Services (LMS), since the
beginning of 2006, the amount of rainfall received to date has been
comparatively the highest amount received in almost two decades for this
period. The national agricultural NGO, Participatory Ecological Land Use
Management, has reported the recent heavy rains may have destroyed more
than a third of the crops in the ground.  The Ministry of Agriculture
and the government's Disaster Management Authority are still assessing
the damage. While the rains are expected to continue in March, the LMS
warned the weather could also negatively impact the winter harvest due
in September/October 2006.


(2) Malawi

(a)  The Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security has released the
preliminary first round of crop production estimates.  Current findings
indicate a maize harvest of 2.4 million tons against a national
requirement of 2 million tons.  The maize estimate represents a 96
percent increase over the 2004/05 production.  The second round of crop
estimates is expected by the end of March or early April.

(b)  The Ministry of Health and various agencies continue to carry out
activities aimed at reducing the spread of cholera. According to the
IFRC, at least 137 people have died since the outbreak in August 2005
and over 5,000 cases have been treated in 26 districts. To date, all
provinces, with the exception of the Western and North-Western provinces
have been affected.

(c)  Throughout the country, maize continues to be scarce in local
markets and ADMARC depots. Other commodities such as potatoes, rice,
beans and groundnuts are available, however prices are steadily rising
and remain out of reach for poorer households.


(3) Mozambique

(a)  Following last week's magnitude-7.4 earthquake that struck southern
Mozambique, government authorities have reported at least four people
have died and 36 injured.  In addition, approximately 300 houses and 12
schools were destroyed.  The epicentre was located near Espungabera, a
small farming town in a remote and sparsely populated area near the
border with Zimbabwe.  WFP is prepared to offer assistance if required
and is working closely with government counterparts.


(4) Namibia

(a)  The Hardap Region received heavy rainfall on the 22nd and 23rd of
February, causing the Hardap Dam, which is fed by eight rivers, to reach
its maximum level.  On the 24th of February, 14,000 inhabitants of
Mariental were advised to evacuate the town and move to higher ground.
By the evening of the same day, the dam overflowed and flooded Mariental
town. Reports indicate that two people have drowned and one person is
missing.. As of 26th of February, 2,100 people were displaced, and 122
houses and 80 businesses submerged. At the national level, the Emergency
Management Unit in the Prime Minister's Office organized an emergency
team to manage the situation and to coordinate relief efforts.  The
Government also dispatched military and police teams as well as a rescue
helicopter to conduct search-and-rescue operations and to facilitate the
evacuation process. The Namibian Red Cross Society is supporting the
Government's efforts and is supplying Non-Food Items.  The UN has not
received any requests for assistance to date.


(5) Swaziland

(a)  Field reports indicate most maize crops in the Lowveld are in good
condition and are likely to produce a significant harvest.  However,
there are isolated areas that have been damaged by high temperatures in
January and a lack of sufficient and/or excessive rainfall. Lowveld
farmers have replanted crops to compensate for the potential loss.

(b)  The Government has allocated approximately USD5 million towards the
improvement of water supplies in drought-stricken communities within the
Lowveld and Lubombo regions during the 2006/07 financial year. An
additional USD423,000 was set aside for earth dam construction.  The
earth dam construction project is also targeted at high rainfall areas
to increase local agricultural production.


(6) Zambia

(a)  New contributions are needed to ensure refugees do not face further
ration cuts later in 2006. WFP's shortfall for the refugee operation for
2006 now stands at USD4.6 million.  Contributions are also required for
WFP's relief operation.  USD13 million is needed to repay outstanding
internal loans and provide food for those people affected by drought and
crop failure before the next harvest.  In February, WFP will provide
15,000 tons of food to over one million Zambians and 72,000 refugees.

(b)  The 2005/06 rainy season has progressed fairly well in most parts
of the country. For the most part the rains began on time, with the
exception of parts of the Northern and Eastern provinces where the
season started thirty days later. Rainfall in almost all of these
districts has since improved.  There were isolated reports of armyworm
infestation in parts of the Central, Southern and Western provinces,
which damaged some crops, however the situation has been brought under
control.


(7) Zimbabwe

(a)  According to the Government-controlled Herald newspaper, the
Reserve Bank Governor reported that Zimbabwe grain imports accounted for
USD135 million in 2005. At an estimated price of USD240 per ton
delivered, this would be sufficient to purchase 562,500 tons.  Since the
beginning of the lean season, WFP has imported more than 120,000 tons of
grain into Zimbabwe against an estimated May 2005 to April 2006 cereal
gap of 1.2 million tons.

(b)  Verifications exercises conducted by WFP Field Monitors and
Cooperating Partner staff in three districts in Mashonaland Central
Province and four districts of Matebeleland North Province, led to the
removal of 2,100 people from the Vulnerable Group Feeding (VGF)
programme beneficiary list.

(c)  WFP monitoring reports from Mashonaland West and Central provinces,
confirm some improvement in household vulnerability levels with the
availability of green maize, pumpkins and vegetables.  Some urban
households are also able to obtain green maize and pumpkins from their
small plots.  However, the harvest is not expected until April and
improved food security has not been reported in other parts of the
country.  In Buhera, Chimanimani, Chipinge and Mutare districts
(Manicaland Province), field reports note the loss of maize, sorghum and
millet crops due to wilting, leaching and the lack of fertilizers.  Due
to limited rainfall since the first week in January, a reduced cereal
harvest is expected in six districts in Masvingo Province.

(d)  According to district-level officials, Bikita and Zaka district's
(Masvingo Province), livestock have been affected by black leg, a
disease that can inflict heavy losses in young livestock during warmer
months. While treatable if detected early, farmers have expressed fears
that unless remedial actions are taken immediately, additional livestock
may die of the disease.



(F) Asia: (1) Myanmar

(1) Myanmar

(a)  Further to the request from local authorities in northern Wa area,
WFP and it's Cooperating Partners (CPs) held a meeting to review access
and security issues. Wa authorities have introduced a travel permit
system for all visitors on the 11th of February and missions will be
accompanied by plain-clothes police or government staff. However, for
the rest of Wa area like in Weinkao and Mongpawk business continued as
usual.

(b)  Last week, the security situation was tightened in Chauk, in the
central dry zone where WFP's Protracted Relief and Recovery Operation
(PRRO) is implemented, following inter-communal unrest. The situation
had improved and returned to normal on Wednesday.

(c)  A joint AusAID/ADRA/WFP team visited the Wa (Namtit and Mongmaw
areas) between 24-28 February. Meetings were held with the Wa
authorities and field visits included rice distributions for
Food-for-Education (FFE), Food-for-Work (FFW) and Vulnerable Group
Feeding (VGF) activities. Chinese Narcotics Control Police and UNODC
joined the visits and meetings on the 25th of February in Namtit and the
26th of February in Mongmaw respectively.

(d)  WFP is fielding an evaluation/formulation mission on the current
activities of the Protracted Relief and Recovery Operation (PRRO)
10066..2 in Northern Rakhine State and Magway Division from the 20th of
February to the 4th of March 2006. The objective of the mission is to
assess the current portfolio of food assistance activities and propose
recommendations for a subsequent phase of the PRRO.

(e)  During the reporting period (15 February to 1 March), under PRRO
10066.2, a total of 450 tons of rice were distributed in Maungdaw to
43,400 school children and 560 Food-for-Work (FFW) participants. A total
of 1070 tons of rice was dispatched to Cooperating Partners' warehouses
in Magway division for VGF and FFE.

(f)  Under the Emergency Operation (EMOP) 10345.1, a total of 130 tons
of rice was distributed for FFE and VGF activities in Taunggyi and
Laukkai area. Around 500 acres of poppy fields have been destroyed since
last December in Na Khite village tract in Sisaing Township in Southern
Shan State and WFP is planning to expand its assistance to that village
tract once the ground confirmation has been completed. In Kokang, WFP
has approved FFW infrastructure activities including school renovation,
water supply, latrines and road rehabilitation, in Parsinkyaw, Namtit
and Mongmaw areas.



(G) Latin America and Caribbean: (1) Bolivia (2) Colombia (3) Cuba (4)
Ecuador (5) Guatemala (6) Nicaragua (7) Peru

(1) Bolivia

(a)  More effective management of emergency shelters is still needed in
the Department of Santa Cruz. Due to the constant movement of families,
it is difficult to determine the exact number of affected people at the
camps; however, it is estimated that 3,000 families are currently
receiving assistance in some of the 18 shelter camps in Santa Cruz.

(b)  During the reporting period (25-03 March), a case of hanta virus
was detected in the flood-affected area in the department of Santa Cruz,
in San Julian Municipality. Health authorities are monitoring the
situation and preventing possible yellow fever and malaria outbreaks.

(c)  40 tents are being arranged as schools for some 3,000 children at
the shelter camps. Classes will start on the 6th of March.

(d)  An inter-agency mission assessed damages and needs in the recently
flooded areas of the departments of Beni and Pando in northern part of
the country. On the 27th and 28th of February, the mission met regional
emergency committees in the cities of Riberalta (Beni) and Cobija
(Pando). The results of the assessments indicate that approximately
1,600 families need assistance in Riberalta and 560 families in Cobija.
Access by road to the region is difficult because of the destruction of
the roads. WFP and national authorities are exploring the possibility to
purchase food locally in Riberalta and Cobija.

(e)  Under the Emergency Operation (IR-EMOP) 10511.0, the second
distribution of food aid continued in Santa Cruz. An estimated 93 tons
were provided to 3,000 families in camps and other evacuation areas.
IR-EMOP commodities have been procured, distributions will continue with
Cooperating Partner resources.


(2) Colombia

(a)  WFP vehicle and two WFP staff were intercepted by an illegal armed
group on the 18th of February at in the province of Norte de Santander.
The rebels retained them for more than 20 hours, releasing them on 19th
February. The WFP vehicle was not returned. WFP Colombia announced that
due to insecurity in the area food deliveries in the province of Norte
the Santander will be temporarily suspended while delivery and security
conditions are evaluated.

(b)  Massive displacements have been reported in the province of Norte
de Santander. An estimated 200 people from Catatumbo Region have fleed
due to threats issued by illegal armed groups after the Colombian
Government decided to implement manual eradication processes of illegal
crops in this province. Most of these families are temporarily settled
in the municipality of Ocana waiting for humanitarian assistance.

(c)  Massive displacements were reported in the Province of Bolivar. At
least 600 families from the areas of Barranco de Loba were forced to
flee after threats issued by illegal armed groups. Most of these people
are fleeing to Cartagena. No detail of the situation was available.

(d)  WFP Antioquia announced that food deliveries and normal operations
in the eastern part of the province would be suspended on January 20th
2006 after a WFP truck was stopped by rebels at an illegal check point.
The rebels took almost one ton of food. Authorities from the province
have announced they will work closely with WFP to prevent such
incidents.

(e)  The situation is still tense in the province of Meta. Several
clashes between illegal armed groups and the Colombian army have caused
massive displacements. Colombian Government implemented manual
eradication processes of illegal crops in this province. WFP is
supporting two implementing activities in nearby areas of this
municipality as part of the Protracted Relief and Recovery Operation
(PRRO) 10366.0 and is evaluating additional interventions in the
province.

(f)  The UN and 160 Non-Governmental Organizations dedicated have
condemned the recent increasing attacks by the Revolutionary Armed
Forces of Colombia (FARC). In the past two weeks, FARC has killed dozens
of people (including more than 24 civilians), attacked police and army
bases and destroyed transport and electricity infrastructures in several
Colombian provinces.

(g)  Several clashes between the Colombian Army and members of illegal
armed groups have been reported in the province of Antioquia. In rural
areas of La Esperanza (eastern Antioquia) an ambulance was attacked by
rebels. Additional combats were also reported in nearby areas of the
municipalities of San Carlos, Valdivia and San Rafael.

(h)  A rebel-imposed traffic ban in southern Colombia to protest the
Colombian President's re-election campaign is causing food shortages as
drivers refuse to drive on insecure roads. Illegal armed rebels have
torched trucks and a school bus that defied the ban. More than 1 million
people are affected by the ban, which spans parts of the southern
provinces of Putumayo, Caqueta and Guaviare. This situation has forced
the government to airlift food, gasoline and other essential items to
residents in the affected provinces. WFP will open two new sub-offices
in the south on the second quarter 2006.

(i)  Under the Protracted Relief and Recovery Operation (PRRO) 10366,
WFP distributed 857 tons of food in 14 provinces to 115,831
beneficiaries, in the Food-for-Work (FFW), Food-for-Training (FFT),
School and Preschool Feeding, Nursing and Expectant Mothers, Nutritional
Recovery and Emergency Food Aid.


(3) Cuba

(a)  Monitoring mission found that the availability of food in the
eastern provinces is not enough due to the bad conditions for crops, and
food have to be brought from the central part of the country causing
higher prices.

(b)  Under the Emergency Operation (EMOP) 10423.0., WFP provided food to
773,000 beneficiaries.

(c)  EMOP 10423.0 received low levels of funding. WFP advanced US$1.2
million from the Immediate Response Account (IRA). These funds were used
to cover one month requirements.


(4) Ecuador

(a)  During the reporting period (25 February to 03 March), heavy rains
and floods continued in the coastal provinces of Los Rios, Esmeraldas,
Guayas and Manabi. Houses, basic infrastructure, and crops were severely
affected.

(b)  On the 17th of February, the Ecuadorian Government declared a state
of emergency in the coastal provinces of Guayas and Los Rios. According
to weather forecasts, heavy rains will continue in March and April in
the coast.

(c)  21- 22 February Napo was chaotic. Several protesters were reported
wounded as confrontations with the police continued. Majors from Tena
and Santa Clara were detained, and the government declared a state of
emergency in Napo province. Oil fields in the Amazon region are
militarized after oil production and delivery was disrupted by angry
protesters.

(d)  Protests have spread to other regions that also demand government's
support for basic infrastructure services. Protests developed in the
framework of government negotiations with Occidental Oil Company
regarding tax revenues the company owes to Ecuador.

(e)  On the 23rd of February, the government and Napo's authorities
agreed to end protests in Napo province oil fields. The government
released the emergency decree and agreed to respond to the province's
demands.

(f)  According to the National Geophysical Institute, on the 21st of
February, a low intensity quake of 4.0 in the Ritcher scale was
registered 205.91 km from Quito in the Amazon province of Pastaza.

(g)  On the 22nd of February, two low intensity quakes of 4.2 in the
Ritcher scale were registered 244.47 km from Quito in the Amazon
province of Pastaza.

(h)  On the 24th of February, a low intensity quake of 4.1 in the
Ritcher scale was registered in Quito.

(i)  On the 26th of February, a low intensity quake of 4.2 in the
Ritcher scale was registered 180.87 km north from Quito, in Carchi
province.

(j)  According to the National Geophysical Institute, Tungurahua
volcanic activity continues to be moderate. However, explosions have
been registered with moderate emissions of ashes, steam and gas. Several
communities have been affected with ash fall. The population has been
warned of possible changes of the volcanic activity.

(k)  According to the National Geophysical Institute, Reventador
volcanic activity continued to be low, with small emissions of steam,
gas, and ashes. Due to bad weather conditions, monitoring of the volcano
has been difficult.

(l)  Under the Emergency Operation (EMOP) 10381.0, the second phase of
monitoring and evaluation of the operation is under process. A
monitoring and evaluation report will be presented at the end of March.
On the 22nd of February 22, UNETE assessment mission visited affected
areas in Guayas and Los Rios provinces and will meet with EMOP
Committees in each province in order to assess their response capacity
and preparedness to face emergencies. A needs assessment will also be
carried out.

(m)  In April there will be a pipeline break and vulnerable refugee
population in Ecuador will not receive any further food assistance.
There is a shortfall of significant funds US$ 756,506 to continue with
the operation.


(5) Guatemala

(a)  Under the Emergency Operation EMOP 10497.0, from December to 1st
march, WFP distributed 5,582 tons to 64,169 beneficiaries.

(b)  WFP has received the new food release notes (FRN) from the
implementing partners for the departments of Solola, San Marcos and
Quetzaltenango. These FRNs correspond to the next round of food
distributions that aim to assist 29,809 families

(c)  Results from the preliminary EFSA report reveal that food
consumption of the affected population fluctuates between poor and very
poor. The EFSA report will be consolidated and presented by mid-march.

(d)  EMOP coordination meetings continue every week.

(e)  The programmed joint monitoring between WFP and counterparts has
succeeded in adjusting the beneficiary list. WFP and counterpart
monitors continue this week gathering the required information, using a
family information questionnaire.

(f)  During the reporting period, a refreshment exercise to all WFP and
CPs monitors was carried out on the use of monitoring tools as well as
on PI procedures and resources.

(g)  The Corn Soya Blend pipeline for the EMOP has broken-down. Last
week, the internationally procured CSB that arrived to the country was
distributed to complete the PRRO 10212 requirements and to cover partial
need of the EMOP (Solola).

(h)  The Protracted Relief and Recovery Operation (PRRO) 10212
dispatched 180 tons of food to assist the programmed targeted population
in Jutiapa and Santa Rosa. Dispatches for the second round of food
distributions started this week in the department of Solola. The total
amount resourced to date is US$ 6,802,037, 48 percent of the flash
appeal.


(6) Nicaragua

(a)  The labor conflict in the health sector continued on its third
month without solution. As a result, medical attention at public health
centers has been closed since the 18th of January.

(b)  During the reporting period (25 February-03 March), between the
18th and the 22nd of February, four minor earthquakes were registered in
the pacific and northern part of Nicaragua. The magnitude of the
earthquakes oscillated between 4.2 and 5.2 on the Richter scale. No
serious damage was reported.

(c)  The political panorama is being affected by the electoral climate
in two aspects. The first derived from the strong tension between the
political parties in the electoral campaign in the Northern and Southern
Atlantic Autonomous Region (RAAN and RAAS). It is expected that the
tension will escalate as the election date next Sunday, the 5th of
March, moves closer. Some political parties threaten to reject the
results. The second aspect that affects the political-electoral panorama
is the open internal disputes in the electoral Supreme Council, where
magistrates blame one-another of lack of citizen credibility and
mutually demands the others resignation.

(d)  Under the Protracted Relief and Recovery Operation (PRRO) 10212.0,
an estimated 10,363 pregnant and lactating women and 11,159 children
continued to benefit from the food distributions. WFP has positioned
food for approximately 56,700 school children in the Northern Autonomous
Atlantic Region (RAAN), which will benefit under the Food-for-Education
programme. For security reasons the distribution has been postponed
until after the elections.

(e)  As the PRRO 10212.0 resources have been used to be able to respond
to other emergencies, the operation urgently needs resources to avoid
pipeline break and continue to provide assistance to families living in
areas vulnerable to recurrent shocks. PRRO 10212.0 will experience
shortfalls for the next six months, beginning in April 2006.


(7) Peru

(a)  On the 27th of February, heavy rainfall was reported in the region,
damaging housing infrastructure, irrigation channels, roads, drainage
outlets, telephone and electricity networks. No deaths or persons
injured have been reported.

(b)  The Civil Defense Institute programmed the dispatch of humanitarian
aid from its General Warehouse in Lima to its Regional Warehouse in
Tumbes by air.

(c)  Meteorological forecasts are moderate to intense rains in coastal
areas and the northern sierra.  This could be accompanied by
thunderstorms especially in Piura and Tumbes.  Sporadic lightning and
rains are expected in Lambayeque and La Libertad.

(d)  El Tigre, the hydrometric station in the Tumbes river basin
registered an instant maximum volume of 1,450 m, causing flooding and
affecting riverside areas and populations.



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

WFP Weekly Emergency Report

The WFP Weekly Emergency Report can be obtained at www.wfp.org


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