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Nutrition Information in Crisis Situations - RwandaRNIS 32/33, April 2001Rwanda has remained relatively stable with insurgency and insecurity no longer posing major obstacles to the provision of assistance. However, the highly volatile situation in eastern DRC is a threat to border security, and the perceived stability of the country could well result in an increase in the number of refugees from countries such as Burundi (FAO 04/01; UN 2001; WFP 20/12/00) An OCHA report on Rwanda (covering 2000) states that "a few pockets of humanitarian needs remain in Rwanda". As a result of the stability of current situation IDPs are categorised as those who recently displaced as a result of crisis. Current numbers of displaced as of the end of 2000, following OCHA's categories, are 7,780 people. 2,480 of these are recently displaced from the Gishwati forest to Gisenyi due to security and environmental reasons and the remaining 5,300 have been displaced to Kibungo and Ruhengeri as a result of severe drought. There are also an estimated 30,000 refugees and 375,000 other drought affected people. As reported in RNIS 31 the government of Rwanda has been following a policy of "villagisation" where people formerly considered displaced have been relocated to created villages or "imidugu". This has resulted in a decrease in the numbers of displaced in the country as some 370,000 people previously registered as displaced are no longer considered to be internally displaced (OCHA 09/00, UNHCR 2001). Refugees and returnees Currently there are 33,500 registered refugees in Rwanda. The majority (30,000) are from eastern DRC from the Masisi and Rutshuru regions of north Kivu. They are accommodated in two camps, the Kibiza camp in Kibuye Prefecture and the Gihembe camp in Byumba Prefecture. Groups of refugees have been returning to Eastern DRC to North Kivu despite the insecurity there. OCHA reports that returning refugees have cited insufficient food rations as a major reason for concern and are hoping to survive on humanitarian aid on there return (OCHA 09/00). The refugees remain highly dependent on food aid as there is little opportunity for income generation and land availability remains very low. There are also 500 Burundian refugees in Kigeme camp in Gikongoro Prefecture and a case load of urban refugees in Kigali (UNHCR 2000). During 2000, 24,599 Rwandan returnees arrived from DRC, passing through the transit centres of Nkamira in Gisenyi Prefecture and Nyagatare in Cyangugu Prefecture. The returnees are given a three month resettlement package. The RNIS does not have any new nutritional information on these refugees (WFP 09/02/01). Food Security Rwanda has suffered from recurrent drought that has resulted in crop losses and some displacement from affected areas such as the Bugesera region. OCHA reports on a food security assessment conducted in August 2000 which indicated that the season 2000 B harvest (January-May 2000) had been affected by insufficient rains which had severely affected the Prefectures of Kigali Rural, Gitarama and Kibungo. The severity of the drought necessitated an emergency intervention and food distributions began in November to the worst affected prefectures of Kibungo, Umutara, Kigali Rural, Butare and (Gitarama. (OCHA 09/00). Preliminary indications are that food output of the recently harvested 2001 A season crop is at around or slightly lower than the good level of last year. Despite a delay to the start of the rainy season, precipitation was abundant and well distributed from mid-October to December. Although excessive rains in November resulted in floods and crop losses in parts, mainly in Gisenyi and Butare Prefectures, they generally benefited plantings and yields, particularly of cereals and pulses. Production of roots, tubers, banana and plantains was less satisfactory reflecting shortages of planting material and prolonged dry weather. Also, despite the overall positive picture, a poor harvest was gathered in the Bugesera region of Kigali Rural Province, due to seed shortages following successive reduced crops (FAO/GIEWS 04/01). The tight food supply situation has eased with the new harvest. Prices of maize, beans and Irish potatoes have decreased from their levels of a year ago. However, despite the overall improvement in the food situation, emergency food assistance is anticipated to be needed until the next harvest for people in the Bugesera region, particularly in Kanzenze and Gashora districts (FAO/GIEWS 04/01). The government has also closed a number of cattle markets in eight provinces affected by an outbreak of foot and mouth disease. The measures have deprived various populations of the income from cattle sales and the associated labour (WFP 01/01; WFP 01-03/01). Overall There is no recent information on the nutritional status of the displaced and newly resettled. However, areas of the country have suffered drought and the population at large remains extremely vulnerable and food insecure. Those currently displaced, including those newly resettled should be viewed as remaining at moderate risk of malnutrition (category III). The nutritional status of the refugees is not critical (category IV). Recommendations
RNIS 31, July 2000Insecurity remains a problem within Rwanda. Recent tensions with Uganda and a military build-up on the border has led to increased security measures for the UN and other international agencies. Major General Paul Kagame was elected as the new President of the country in April (OCHA-08/06/00). The Rwandan government has been following a policy of "villagisation" whereby people are resettled in new villages or "imidugu", mainly in Ruhengeri and Gisenyi Prefectures. Previously, the RNIS has referred to these people as displaced, however, following OCHA's lead they will no longer be described as displaced, but simply as vulnerable. OCHA has reported that some 40,000 Rwandans are truly displaced in Gisenyi, having fled from the Gishwati forest. A further 370,000 people are reported to be living in refugee-like situation (that is in the new villages). Rwanda also houses a staggering 121,000 detainees (OCHA - 08/06/00). The RNIS has not received any new information on the nutritional situation of the vulnerable or displaced groups in Rwanda. WFP continues with its programmes in the area (WFP - 15/05/00,15/06/00). Refugees A refugee census in the Kiziba and Kibali refugee camps in the Prefectures of Kibuye and Byumba indicated a reduction of 11.5% of the estimated refugee population. After the census, the caseload in Kibali camp was reduced to 15,500 refugees and 13,000 refugees in Kiziba camp. Thus the Rwandan Government hosts 28,500 Congolese refugees (WFP 15/06/00). There are also some 500 Burundian refugees in the country. RNIS 30, March 2000There remain an estimated 620,000 IDPs in Rwanda, the majority of whom are in Ruhengeri and Gisenyi Prefectures. The government is moving ahead with its controversial “villagisation” or “imidgudu” scheme throughout the country. There has been no new information on the nutritional situation of the displaced. The most recent survey in June 1999 in Gisenyi described the displaced population at moderate risk of malnutrition (see RNIS 28). Refugees There are approximately 32,300 Congolese refugees (from DRC) in Rwanda (14,5000 in Kitiza and 17,800 in Gihembe). An estimated 10,000 Congolese refugees have spontaneously returned to North Kivu from Rwanda since mid-1999. The latest reports from UNHCR states that the nutritional situation of these refugees is satisfactory. There are also some 500 Burundian refugees in the country (UNHCR - 07/12/99, 31/03/00; WFP - 29/03/00). Returnees According to UNHCR, there have been over 5,000 returnees to Rwanda since January. This inflow can be attributed to the relatively stable situation in Rwanda and the concomitant deterioration in the humanitarian situation in eastern DRC (UNHCR - 31/03/00). Overall, there has been no new information on the nutritional situation of the IDPs and refugees in Rwanda. It is assumed that the population remains at moderate risk (category IV). Recommendations and priorities:
RNIS 29, December 1999The transition programme in Rwanda continues. The overall objectives of the programme are to lay the basis for national reconciliation, sustainable economic growth, human resource development and the improvement of living standards (IRIN - 23/11/99). There remain, however, an estimated 620,000 IDPs in Rwanda, the majority of whom are in Ruhengeri and Gisenyi Prefectures. The government is moving ahead with its controversial “villagisation” or “imidgudu” scheme throughout the country (IRIN -13/10/99; OCHA-11/99). Food security The overall dry conditions in October, with only light and patchy rainfall, have harmed prospects for the 2000 season-A bean and maize crop in eastern and southern areas of the country. A joint assessment to the affected areas estimated that between 60-70% of the area planted with beans will have significantly reduced yields. Market prices have remained stable because of imports of food from the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC). The very dry regions of the East have also been environmentally degraded by over-population (the largest percentage of new caseload returnees are located in the dry region prefectures of Umutara and Kibungo). Massive herds of cattle belonging to new returnees have wrought untold damage. WFP will provide food assistance to 200,000 people in the affected areas. Further assessments will be carried out in early 2000 (FEWS - 26/11/99; UNHCR - 07/12/99; WFP -15/11/99). There are significant problems in food distribution within the country, as crops in the traditional breadbasket of the Northwest become prohibitively expensive when transported to other areas of the county through private means (UNHCR-07/12/99). Displaced population UNHCR has reported on a recent field mission to Ruhengeri prefecture, which noted that new returnees are no more susceptible to malnutrition than long-term residents (UNHCR - 07/12/99). No other information on the nutritional status of the IDPs has been received by the RNIS in the reporting period. Refugees There are approximately 30,000 Congolese refugees from North Kivu in Rwanda. The latest UNHCR report states that the general nutritional situation in these camps is satisfactory (UNHCR - 07/12/99). Returnees Returnees from DRC have continued to arrive during the reporting period. Those originating from Ruhengeri and Gisenyi are provided with a two-week WFP ration and are registered as beneficiaries for general food distributions in their communes of origin. All other returnees are provided with a three-month resettlement ration (WFP -15/11/99). Recommendations and priorities:
Overall, there has been no new information on the nutritional situation of the IDPs in Rwanda; it is assumed that that this population remains at moderate risk (category III). The nutritional situation of refugees remains unknown to the RNIS (category V). RNIS 28, September 1999The coalition government and political parties making up the parliament in Rwanda have agreed to extend the transition period that was due to end in July for another four years. They aim to resolve political and judicial problems before embarking on the process of constitutional change and the organisation of broader democratic elections. There remain 673,000 "affected" people in Rwanda requiring humanitarian assistance. This figure includes more than half a million IDPs the majority of whom are in Ruhengeri and Gisenyi. It also includes some 124,000 detainees, 33,700 refugees and 6,600 unaccompanied children (IRIN - 31/08/99; OCHA -19/08/99). North western areas The security situation in north-western Rwanda remains stable. There are, however, unconfirmed reports that between one and two thousand Interhamwe have infiltrated the country and are lying low and thus security checks remain in place between Ruhengeri and Gisenyi (OCHA - 19/08/99; WFP - 20/08/99). The Rwandan National Population Office, UNFPA and UNDP reports that living conditions in the north-west of the country continue to be difficult even after the population has moved out of the displacement camps into the 'imudugu'. Sub-standard housing is widespread. 29.1% of the population are still living in tents and 33% continue to rely on plastic sheeting for the walls of their homes. Plastic sheeting is the principal material for roofing for 51.2% of the population. Men currently head only 66.1% of households. These figures have changed little since December, except the number of female-headed households has nearly doubled in Gisenyi. Thus more women are now carrying the increased burden of raising their children and trying to sustain a productive livelihood (OCHA - 03/08/99). Food security According to the report described above agricultural activities have increased significantly since people left the displacement camps, although only 50% of the population surveyed were able to access their land regularly. In Gisenyi, 74% of available land had been cultivated but only 56% had been cultivated in Ruhengeri. A recent FAO report noted that food prices had started to increase following reduced yields from the 1999b season. Another concern is that only 60% of people under 20 have access to agricultural land. Without education or opportunities for income generation, an underclass may soon develop in this age group (OCHA - 03/08/99). Of additional concern in Gisenyi is that approximately 79% of households lack any sort of food stocks and, on average, 82% of their expenditures are on food. As a result, much of the population is still relying on food aid and cannot compensate for it should distributions be reduced. WFP provides food to 247,500 beneficiaries in Gisenyi. There are an estimated 143,000 IDPs in this area (OCHA - 03/08/99, 13/08/99; WFP - 04/08/99). Nutritional survey in Gisenyi Preliminary results from a survey in Gisenyi prefecture conducted in June by MOH/UNICEF/WFP/WHO estimate a prevalence of 11% acute wasting and/or oedema which includes 7.3% severe malnutrition amongst children aged 3-59 months (see Annex). Oedema was reported in 6.2% of the children. The nutritional situation was most severe in the south-eastern communes of Gisenyi where insecurity has been prolonged and humanitarian assistance has been difficult to provide. The full report of this survey is not yet available to the RNIS and thus no further conclusions can be drawn at this time (OCHA - 03/08/99; WFP - 04/08/99). Ruhengeri Following the early conclusion of the rainy season, the potential for crop failure was heightened in many areas if the north western prefecture of Ruhengeri. Anecdotal reports have indicated that seeds reserved for the October planting season are being consumed by farmers and their families instead of being planted. These reports are currently being evaluated. Currently, WFP provides food through general distributions to an estimated 270,000 beneficiaries in eight communes in Ruhengeri. There are approximately 365,000 IDPs in this area (WFP - 02/09/99). Returnees from DRC As of the end of August, approximately 25,000 Rwandans had returned from N. Kivu to Gisenyi and Ruhengeri. A combination of the improving situation in the north-west of Rwanda and the deteriorating conditions and sensitising campaigns in the DRC are the main reasons for the returns. The returnees are registered at a transit centre where WFP provides them with a 3 month food package and non-food items prior to departure for their home communes. UNHCR expects more returnees in the next few months. There have also been other returnees from Burundi, Uganda and Tanzania (OCHA - 13/08/99; UNHCR - 27/09/99; WFP - 04/08/99). Refugees in Rwanda There is no new information on the nutritional status of the approximately 30,000 Congolese refugees from North Kivu in Rwanda. Overall, there has been little reported change in the situation of the IDPs in the north west of Rwanda over the reported period. It is clear that the IDPs have not yet fully established their livelihoods, although they receive food assistance from WFP and thus they remain at moderate risk (category IIb). The nutritional situation of the returnees appears to be adequate (category IIc). The nutritional situation of the Congolese is unknown (category III). Priorities and Recommendations:
RNIS 27, July 1999The last RNIS reported large numbers of IDPs in the northwest of the country who had left their homes as a result of Interahamwe militia violence in the area. The government has currently largely re-established stability in the area and many of the IDP camps in Ruhengeri and Gisenyi prefectures have been dismantled. Most of the formerly displaced people are now living in new settlements known as "imudugudu" following massive resettlement programmes organised by the government which started in December last year (IRIN -09/04/99, 20/05/99, SCF-UK - 19/05/99). These imidugudu are situated close to the roads and families are grouped according to their original cellules and secteurs. The intention is that families should be closer to their fields than when they were in the large camps which were close to the administrative centres (SCF - 02/99). In terms of humanitarian assistance, the cereals pipeline situation for Rwanda is cause for concern, as there are no cereal stocks for Rwanda in the region. This is due to shipping delays with an expected shipment due in April now not expected until August (WFP - 25/04/99). Local purchases in Uganda have been unsuccessful due to insufficient stocks on the market as a result of the Tanzanian drought. Ruhengeri Prefecture The nutritional situation of the IDPs in Ruhengeri has improved in the past three months. In January very high rates of severe wasting and/or oedema were recorded (6.4%) but this rate is reported to have declined since then. Food Economy assessment in Ruhenegri Prefecture Following the nutrition survey in January 1999, Save the Children Fund UK undertook an assessment of the food economy of the displaced population in Ruhengeri Prefecture (SCF - 02/99). The population of Ruhengeri prefecture is estimated to be 869,000, of which possibly 573,000 were displaced. The assessment concluded that families were able to meet their energy (kilocalories) requirements between July 1998, and January 1999, however their diet was extremely monotonous and of poor nutritional quality (with 80% of energy from sweet potatoes, and very limited sources of protein). Sources of food in the larger camps and the imidugudu included harvest from own or others fields; agricultural labour; food aid; and market purchase or begging. A deficit of two thirds of food requirements was predicted for the period January to June 1999, when food and income sources should stabilise with the harvest. From the descriptions of parents of severely malnourished children a number of possible causal factors were identified, including; repeated illnesses, (often measles, diarrhoea and/or vomiting); living in hiding in the bush or forest for prolonged periods; and lack of appropriate care due to the death of one or even two parents (SCF -02/99). Not all Ruhengeri Prefecture was equally affected by the insecurity in 1998. SCF divided up the prefecture into three regions; region A was relatively secure throughout and less displacement occurred, whereas in regions B and C massive displacement occurred, and currently this is where the imidugudu are. Region C appeared to have the highest prevalence of severe malnutrition, which was attributed to a worse security situation which occurred earlier - hence the displacement of the population from Region C was longer and there was greater disruption to harvests. The soil is also less fertile in this region. Many health centres destroyed during the insecurity were yet to be rehabilitated, hence access to health care was limited. Also this region is more inaccessible, which limits trading networks and hinders the delivery of humanitarian assistance (SCF - 02/99). Situation begins to stabilise Since this assessment the number of admissions to feeding programmes has in fact decreased. This is attributed to improved targeting by WFP, increased frequency of food deliveries, increased NGO presence and activity in the nutritional sector (supplementary and therapeutic feeding programmes were put in place), and an early harvest in some communes. Agricultural activities in Ruhengeri prefecture have resumed in most communes as a result of improved security: most of the IDPs now have access to their farmlands (IRIN - 20/05/99; WFP -19/04/99, 06/05/99; SCF-UK - 18/05/99). Despite the progress described above, the nutritional situation of these people is still precarious. Food will continue to be scarce until the harvest in late July and WFP will need to provide essential food assistance until at least then. There is a need to remove restrictions on residents wishing to provide agricultural and general labour outside their own communes. Such restrictions - which are in place because of security concerns - have a direct impact on well being as a substantial proportion of income currently comes from paid labour. These restrictions should therefore be removed wherever security allows, as a means to raising the standard of living. There is also a need for further investigation of, and support for, alternative income generating activities for imudugudu residents who have no, or very limited, access to land for cultivation (SCF-UK -18/05/99). Gisenyi Prefecture The RNIS has not received a report which focuses specifically on the nutritional situation of the IDPs in Gisenyi prefecture although a survey has been planned for later in the year (WFP - 06/05/99). A WFP assessment of Mubuga cellule, in Kanombe Sector, Gisenyi, observed destroyed and abandoned houses. In Mugbuga cellule where 3,092 IDPs are living in makeshift camps, no agricultural activities were observed. Returnees from DRC In the past few months some 15,000 Rwandans are reported to have returned to the northwest of the country from North Kivu in DRC. These people, who left Rwanda in 1994, have told UNHCR that they returned home because local officials in eastern DRC warned them to do so. The relative calm in north-western Rwanda also encouraged them to return. UNHCR staff have helped the returnees back to their communes of origin and have distributed blankets, plastic sheeting and other materials to the group. WFP provides a three month resettlement ration to the returning refugees. Local authorities have indicated that several thousand more returnees could follow (UNHCR - 04/05/99, WFP -19/04/99,21/05/99). Army Worm Infestation More generally, agriculture in Rwanda is suffering from an infestation of army worms, especially in the prefectures of Mutara, Kibungo, Beera and Kigali Rural. Army worms have so far infested about 6,000 hectares of agricultural land according to estimates by the Ministry of Agriculture. Humanitarian sources warned that the invasion could seriously impact the season's agricultural production as well as the country's limited livestock resources if no action was taken. The ministry of Agriculture and FAO initiated some rapid interventions and, combined with the favourable effects of the rains, the impact of the infestation has been reduced. However, there are still concerns about a potential second invasion of the worms at the end of their next reproductive cycle (IRIN - 27/04/99, 04/05/99, 13/05/99). Refugees in Rwanda There is no new information on the nutritional status of the approximately 30,000 Congolese refugees from North Kivu in Rwanda. Overall, The nutritional situation of 625,000 (UNHCR - 10/06/99) IDPS in the north-west remains precarious, as they have not yet re-established their livelihoods and there are major problems assuring a continuous food aid pipeline. The IDPs are therefore considered at moderate risk (category IIb). The nutritional situation of returnees from DRC is apparently adequate (category IIc). The nutritional situation of the Congolese is unknown (category III). Priorities and recommendations:
From the SCF-UK report, recommendations for Ruhenegeri include (SCF-UK- 18/05/99):
RNIS 26, March 1999There has been a dramatic increase in number of IDPs in Rwanda from about 35,000 in December 1997 to over 650,000 in February 1999 (IRIN - 19/02/99). The majority of the IDPs, who fled as a result of military operations, are in Ruhengeri and Gisenyi Prefectures. Since June 1997, insecurity has increased in the Northwest of the country as a result of ex-FAR soldiers and hard-liners of the previous government fighting against the military. As the security situation worsened, there was a massive movement of the population away from the collines (rural areas) and towards the administrative centres, as nearly the entire population moved to live in large camps near the communal office. In addition, many people fled, or were taken hostage, into the surrounding bush and forest (SCF-UK - 02/99). In November 1998, the Government of Rwanda announced plans for a gradual resettlement of the displaced people into new villages (known as imidugudu) in close proximity to their traditional farmlands (WFP -27/11/98). This process of "villagisation" is under away and the latest figures from the Government indicate that about 300,000 displaced people have been resettled to new sites in the prefectures of Gisenyi (118,730) and Ruhengeri (176,363). From December 1998, the security situation was said to have improved (SCF - 02/99). UNHCR has not been involved in the transfers of these IDPs, but continues to distribute blankets, soap and other items (UNHCR - 12/02/99). A total of 660,000 internally displaced Rwandans in the north-western prefectures of Ruhengeri and Gisenyi are currently benefiting from WFP food assistance (WFP - 22/01/99). Reports of very poor living conditions for the IDPs have been received since October. Many are living without proper shelter, access to clean water, adequate medical services and opportunities to farm their land. Children, women, the elderly and handicapped "figure prominently" amongst the IDPs (WFP - 30/10/98, 06/11/98; IRIN -18/12/98). Their nutritional situation is variable: some reports are favourable, whereas others indicate a serious level of malnutrition. According to WFP reports, health authorities in Gisenyi, confirmed a decreasing number of cases of malnutrition. Results of a screening exercise carried out in early December 1998, show a reduction in the number of malnourished persons in special feeding programmes. Supplementary feeding is to be phased out in most centres in the coming months (WFP - 22/01/99). Anecdotal reports suggest,however, that the nutritional status in Nyarutovu and Nyamugali camps in Ruhengeri Prefecture is deteriorating (WFP - 18/02/99). Since September the number of malnourished children enrolled in feeding programmes in the camp hospitals have doubled. WFP has agreed to double the supplementary ration and provide full rations to mothers of the severely malnourished children who stay at the centres. The present programme will also expand to include pregnant and lactating mothers. In addition, qualitative monitoring systems are being set up to assess what rations are received and what other sources of food exist. A joint Ministry of Health/NGO survey in February covering nine communes of Ruhengeri prefecture found 10.7% wasting with 6.4% severe wasting of (see Annex I(2h)). Chronic malnutrition was recorded at 59.5% and severe chronic malnutrition at 29.2%. Oedema was measured at 4.7%. Measles vaccination was recorded for 92% of the population over 6 months following a campaign the previous month. The communes with the highest rates of acute malnutrition were Mataba (23.3%), Nyarutovu (18.7%), and Gatonde (16.7%). The higher rates in these communes were attributed to a combination of the negative impact of the insecurity on harvests, variable or poor soil fertility, limited access to health care, inadequate provision of shelter, and restricted road access (SCF-UK - 02/99). A food economy analysis was conducted in conjunction with the anthropometric survey in Ruhengeri (SCF-UK, 2/99). It was reported that although most of the population had been able to be meet their energy requirements up until the survey, their diet was nutritionally unbalanced.. Around 80% of their calories were estimated to have come from sweet potatoes, with less than 5% from pulses (the latter is extremely low for a population whose preferred staple is beans). Their main sources of food were from harvesting their own land (or other's) when security permitted; agricultural labour, food aid, or begging. Due to logistical and security constraints WFP had been unable to deliver food regularly and the ration lacked oil. Furthermore, insecurity had prevented most families from cultivating or maintaining their own crops. Thus it was predicted that after months of harvesting without planting (due to insecurity), the sweet potato crop will soon be exhausted for most families. Tools and seeds for farming had also been stolen and hence, it would be difficult to re-plant. In addition to the IDPs, there are currently some 30,000 Congolese refugees (from North Kivu) in Rwanda (OCHA - 12/98). No new information is available on the nutritional situation of these people. A Ministry of Agriculture/FAO/WFP/ EU assessment of crop production in Rwanda during the 1999 season A (November to February) has reported an increased yield compared to 1998. Due to the unevenly distributed rains, however, the positive impact was mainly limited to deep-rooted plants like bananas. Bean production is almost 20% lower than the 1998 level. A food deficit for January-July 1999 is estimated to be approximately 99,000 metric tons, of which 52,000 will be covered by current food aid interventions (FEWS - 26/02/99). Overall, the reports on the nutritional situation of the IDPs in Rwanda are variable. Thus they are considered to be at moderate nutritional risk (category IIb). Recommendations and Priorities
RNIS 25, October 1998RNIS 25 was devoted to reviewing some of the changes in emergency response over the last five years. We will first highlight situations where wasting was brought rapidly under control. We will then look at some of the factors that have led to less than optimal results, followed by what has been accomplished to improve response over the last five years. We conclude with some ideas for future improvements in the RNIS Reports that could even further enhance communication, stimulate thought, and promote improvement. RNIS 24, June 1998The security situation in Rwanda remains volatile, particularly in Gisenyi and Ruhengeri prefectures, leading to population displacements. For example, there were reports of a massacre in Gisenyi prefecture at the end of March that left 40 people dead. There were also reports of five students killed and seven injured in Ruhengeri in March. Further reports were made in April of killings in Gitarama prefecture and of 4,000 people fleeing their homes due to insecurity. Most recently there have been reports of 100,000 displaced persons in Gisenyi and Ruhengeri due to insecurity. Immediate food assistance is being planned for this population, most of whom are accommodated around administrative and military centres [IRIN 20-26/03/98,10-16/04/98,24-30/04/98, WFP 08/05/98]. Food aid is currently planned for 550,000 people in Rwanda. This will be in the form of supplementary and institutional feeding, food-for-work programmes, vulnerable group feeding and aid to refugees. New projects have been started in some prefectures where people are finding it increasingly difficult to acquire food due to a combination of factors including erratic rainfall and flooding [FAO 16/02/98, IRIN 24-30/04/98, USAID 28/04/98]. Food insecurity is generally increasing in Rwanda due to a combination of poor crop production due in part to heavy rains, food delivery difficulties and insecurity. Many roads have been closed due to flooding and mud slides, including the southern corridor, a main supply route from the south. As a result, prices for staple foods are reportedly high and supplies are limited. Particularly hard hit are the prefectures of Butare and Gikongoro, where there were anecdotal reports of malnutrition among the adult population in April, and children were reported to be abandoning school due to hunger. There are also steep increases in the number of persons requiring supplementary and therapeutic feeding. Furthermore, there have recently been reports of a deteriorating nutritional situation amongst residents of resettlement camps in Kibungo. Food is now being distributed through newly established nutritional centres in the camps and plans are afoot to increase food aid deliveries in June in order that a partial ration of 1025 kcals/person/day can be provided. It is anticipated that the harvest in July will improve the food supply in areas like Butare, Byumba, Gikongoro, Gitarama, and Kigali [IRIN 17/04/98, WFP 10/04/98, 17/04/98, 06/05/98, USAID 28/04/98]. Food aid deliveries have been unbalanced, resulting in a ration of mostly cereals. There has been a shortage of pulses and oil for food-for-work projects. It is expected that this situation will improve in the coming months as a result of regional purchases of food and the re-opening of the southern corridor [WFP 22/05/98]. There are approximately 35,000 refugees in Rwanda. The number of Congolese refugees continues to increase, while some refugees from Burundi have been returning home [IRIN 01-07/05/98, WFP 01/05/98]. RNIS 23, March 1998Widespread violence in the Great Lakes region over the last four years, including the genocide in Rwanda in 1994, the overthrow of the Zairian government in 1997 and continued insecurity in Burundi, has led to massive population displacements, rendering millions of people vulnerable to malnutrition, disease and death. Despite improvements in the situation in 1997, notably in Rwanda, approximately 2.6 million people require food aid in the region (see table below). The food deficit in many areas has increased, social services have been disrupted, and the economies of the region severely disrupted. In addition, the unusually heavy rains in the region have made food aid transportation difficult [OCHA Jan-Dec 98].
RNIS 22, December 1997There remain approximately 3.5 million people requiring humanitarian assistance in the Great Lakes Region. Security incidents appear to be intensifying in number and severity in the Eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), Burundi and Rwanda. The insecurity is having a negative impact on the food security situation of large numbers of people; at the same time, it is hampering efforts by the humanitarian aid community to assist, particularly in Eastern DRC and Burundi. Numbers of people affected and locations overtime are summarised in the box below:
RNIS 21, September 1997Violence in this region over the last three years, including the genocide in Rwanda in 1994 and the overthrow of the Zairian government in early 1997, has led to widespread displacement. Numbers of people affected and locations over time are summarised in the box below:
Insecurity is the overwhelming problem regionally leading to fresh population displacements and hampering humanitarian aid efforts. Fighting has been widespread in Burundi, eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), and in Brazzaville in the Republic of Congo. There have also been many security incidents in western Rwanda as well as tensions in some of the remaining refugee camps in Tanzania. Thousands of refugees in eastern DRC remain unaccounted for, and a United Nations investigation team has been set up to determine whether these refugees have been massacred. The team has yet to begin its investigation. Food security in being adversely affected as a result of these conflicts with the displaced particularly vulnerable. RNIS 20, June 1997As rebel forces swathed across Democratic Republic of Congo, assuming control of the country in May, thousands of Rwandan refugees and former Zairians were displaced. There were numerous reports of high mortality and malnutrition rates among these populations as a result of arduous journeys and lack of access by humanitarian agencies. However, many refugees have now been repatriated, although returnees passing through transit camps in Rwanda are in a poor nutritional state. There is currently a high level of insecurity in Rwanda, partly fueled by the large number of returnees. Food price inflation is also causing concern. The food security situation among populations in Burundi living in regroupment camps is currently very poor and is exacerbated by the continuation of some level of sanctions and insecurity. Water and sanitation are also problems in many of these camps. In Tanzania, is spite of logistical difficulties with food and water provision for the Kigoma camps, refugees appear to be in a stable nutritional situation. Trend in numbers of refugees/displaced and proportion severely malnourished and at high risk (shaded area).
Estimates of populations affected regionally are summarised in the box below:
It is currently estimated that 2.6 million people in Rwanda will require food aid assistance for the first six months of 1997. This total number includes recent returnees, previous returnees who will have to leave farm areas they currently occupy and other vulnerable groups (i.e. widows, the elderly, orphans). Although the level of insecurity in Rwanda remains high, food distributions during March were not adversely affected. Tensions remain particularly high in the prefectures of Gisenyi and Ruhengeri with many of the repatriated refugees from Democratic Republic of Congo arriving at communes within these prefectures. Numbers of returnees from Democratic Republic of Congo, which were low in March, increased in April. Efforts are being made to pre-position food at transit centres so that new returnees can be provided with a one month's ration before returning to their home communes. All returnees are provided with high energy biscuits and wet feeding while at the transit centres. Any further distributions will be carried out at commune level and be overseen by local authorities. By April, rains were affecting the delivery of food in many parts of the country and hampering project activities. Most recent reports indicate that insecurity in Ruhengeri has led to suspension of all distribution activities [FAO 23/12/96, WFP 14/03/97, 04/04/97, 18/04/97], Market prices of food throughout the country continue to rise due largely to the increased demand of the returnees. Other inflationary pressures come from the poor harvest in both Rwanda and southern Uganda and the ongoing trade embargo with Burundi [WFP 28/03/97]. Prices of staple foods have increased by 30% compared to the same time last year. Seeds have been widely distributed in Rwanda. However, although all the planned distributions for beans were carried out there were shortfalls in the distributions of sorghum and sweet potatoes. As sweet potatoes are a staple food in the Rwandan diet, it is likely that this will have a negative impact on the already fragile food security situation in the country. There have also been recent reports of lack of maize meal and pulses in the country due to railway delays. This has led to a shortage of pulses in Runda transit centre, thereby slowing the return of returnees from the centre to their home communes [IRIN 23/04/97, WFP 28/03/97]. There have been some recent nutritional data on children screened at transit centres. In Nkamira, levels of wasting amongst under fives screened between the 31 st of March and 6th of April were extremely high with large numbers of severely malnourished children. A similar screening exercise in Musange transit centre in the first two weeks of April also found very high levels of wasting and unusually high levels of severe wasting and/or oedema. As screening was not systematic these results must be viewed with caution; however, the degree of measured severe wasting alone gives grave cause for concern about the nutritional situation of this returning population [MSF-B 25/05/97]. There have been recent discussions regarding the establishment of a food assessment unit in the country which will help to identify pockets of poverty and areas considered to be vulnerable. This should also allow for some follow-up with the severely malnourished people seen at the transit centres and lead to better targeted food aid interventions in the future [WFP 02/05/97]. Before the large-scale repatriation in November and December 1996, there were approximately 16,000 refugees from the Masisi region in Democratic Republic of Congo in Umumbo camp who were moved to Kibiza. Following some repatriation, approximately 12,000 remained at the new site. A screening (using MUAC) of this population in December 1996 showed 9.7% wasting with 1.0% severe wasting (see Annex I (4d)). Oedema was measured at 0.3%. There are a further 3,000 Burundi refugees in Rwanda housed in two camps [MSF-B 01/01/97, UNHCR 28/04/97]. RNIS 19, March 1997As rebel forces make significant advances in Eastern Zaire, displaced Rwandan refugees and Zairians have been constantly on the move from one make-shift camp to another. Insecurity has prevented full access by humanitarian agencies to these camps and high levels of mortality have been recorded amongst this population. Approximately 1.3 million Rwandan refuges have returned home and although this population is facing problems of re-integration in an increasingly insecure environment, there are no reports of significant nutritional problems. Burundi/Rwanda Region
Trend in numbers of refugees/displaced and
proportion severely malnourished and at high risk (shaded area).
Estimates of populations affected regionally are summarised in the box below:
The security situation in Rwanda, particularly in Western prefectures, is apparently deteriorating and security incidents, including attacks directed at expatriate agency staff and civilians, are continually being reported in country. For example, three Medecins du Monde staff members were shot and killed in Ruhengeri and four employees of the UN Human Rights Field Operation in Rwanda (HRFOR) were shot dead on the 4th of February 1997. These killings are the latest in a series of attacks directed against foreigners. As a result of this escalating violence, most NGO and UN staff were evacuated to Kigali and to Naiobi in February [IRIN 18-20/01/97, WFP 24/01/97, 07/02/97, 21/02/97, UNICEF 06/02/97]. Despite the deteriorating security situation, refugees continue to return. Estimates of the numbers of refugees returning to Rwanda in 1996 are 719,000 from Zaire, 88,000 from Burundi, 483,000 from Tanzania and 9,000 from Uganda. There are also approximately 6,000 Burundi refugees in Rwanda. Most of these people fled fighting in Cibitoke province in June 1996, and the Government of Rwanda has announced that these refugees must return home. In addition there are 14,000 Zairian refugees who fled the Masisi region in 1996 [IRIN 11-13/01/97, USAID 14/02/97]. It is currently estimated that 2.6 million people in Rwanda will require food aid for the first six months of 1997 This number includes recent returnees, previous returnees who will have to leave farm areas that they are currently occupying, and other vulnerable groups (e.g. widows, elderly, orphans). Despite an improved harvest compared to recent years, crop production still remains below pre-civil strife averages due largely to the lower cropped areas, low yields of pulses, and crop losses in prefectures affected by dry weather. There are two main concerns regarding food security in the coming months. First, food shortages are seen as inevitable due to the reduction in bean production coupled with a sharp increase in demand for food from returning refugees. This may lead to a deteriorating nutritional situation in areas such as Gikongoro and Butare prefectures, where crop production has been particularly poor and there are large numbers of recent returnees [FAO 23/12/96]. Secondly, although some food deliveries are still taking place, full scale distribution cannot restart until security can be guaranteed. Where distributions are possible, these have also been delayed by lack of precise information on numbers of target beneficiaries. There are therefore concerns that irregular food distributions may have a negative impact on the nutritional status of the most vulnerable groups. Furthermore, there are fears that tensions in the country, which are already high, will likely be further increased if there is not enough food available for needy populations. Responsibility for food distributions are presently being handed over from NGOs to local authorities and guidelines have been proposed to ensure effective and transparent implementation of these new systems of food allocation [IRIN 18-20/01/97, WFP 24/01/97, 07/02/97, 21/02/97, UNICEF 06/02/97]. Aid agencies warn that Rwanda will remain heavily dependent on food aid for the next few years unless donor countries concertedly attempt to rehabilitate the agricultural sector of the country. Seeds and tools are in the process of being distributed to new returnees as they are heavily dependent on food aid and have not had access to a harvest. If completed in time, these distributions will enable the majority of the returnees to plant their first crops in several years [FAO 23/12/96, IRIN 07/02/97, WFP 03/01/97]. RNIS 18, December 1996Fighting which erupted in Eastern Zaire in early November led to the dispersal of most of the 1.2 million refugees in the region and also caused the displacement of an unknown number of Zairians. The insecurity resulted in approximately 600,000 Rwandan refugees returning home, mainly without incident. The large-scale returnee influx into Rwanda is generally being well-managed by the international community. The number of refugees remaining in Zaire and the number of internally displaced Zairians is unknown but likely to be in the hundreds of thousands. Some refugees have fled to Uganda while some Burundi refugees have returned home. The continued insecurity in Burundi is also causing tens of thousands of people to flee their homes, mainly heading for Tanzania. The Tanzanian government has served notice that it intends to repatriate the large refugee population by the end of the year. Trend in numbers of refugees/displaced and proportion severely malnourished or at high nutritional risk (shaded area).
Current estimates of affected populations by country of present residence are given in the box below:
Approximately 600,000 refugees returned to Rwanda by the end of November and were being assisted with food and non-food items during transit and on return to their communes of origin. Due to the scale and speed of return (200,000 returned between the 15-16th of November) it has not so far been possible to conduct nutritional surveys. However, the returnees are generally reported to be in good health, although more recent returnee children are said to be suffering from dehydration, exhaustion and hunger [IRIN 17/11/96, 22/11/96]. There are also approximately 576,000 people in Rwanda who will require emergency assistance probably until the harvest in January 1997. Relief agencies established eight way stations between Gisenyi and Ruhengeri in Rwanda to address the needs of the returnee population. The size of the population precluded distribution of a general ration during transit so that returnees were allocated high energy biscuits. However, resupplying way stations has proven problematic at times due to refugee congestion on the roads. NGOs therefore began to restock warehouse after dark when the roads were clear for the night [IRIN 22/11/96]. General rations lasting between one to four weeks are being supplied to returnees on arrival at their communes of origin and the registration of the 600,00 Rwandan returnees is said to be continuing in the communes without major disruption. However, there have been some administrative problems with food distribution in Gisenyi and Ruhengeri [IRIN 03/12/96, WFP 21/11/96]. In spite of the fact that the nutritional state of the returnees has been generally better than expected, the need for supplementary feeding at commune level has increased due to the influx. However, in order to avert the need for establishing large numbers of feeding centres it has been decided to incorporate a 100 gms of UNIMIX/child/day into the general ration. There is also increasing concern over the food security situation in both Butare and Gikongoro prefecture where irregular rainfall during the past two months and increasing demand for food from refugee returnees from Burundi in July and August is increasing the pressures on food supplies [WFP 29/11/96]. A recent nutritional survey in Kibangira camp (approximately 3,000 Burundi refugees) in Rwanda showed 6.1% wasting with 2.8% severe wasting. No cases of oedema were seen (Annex 1 (4a)). The crude mortality rate was 0.4/10,000/day and the under-five mortality rate was 1.9/10,000/day. The ration distributed was 1950 kcals/person/day just prior to the survey while measles immunisation coverage was 97%. These indicators describe a generally adequate situation [MSF-B 11/10/96]. RNIS 17, September 1996The recent coup in Burundi has not stemmed the rising tide of violence which is seriously affecting humanitarian relief programmes. Since the coup, all Rwandan refugees have returned home from Burundi, while the exodus of Burundi refugees to neighbouring Uvira, Zaire, and Tanzania continues. The Zairian Government has announced that all Rwandan refugees will be repatriated from Zaire by next year. Currently, the nutritional situation amongst this refugee population is adequate and stable. However, the continued reduction in rations in the Zairian refugee camps and the curtailment of refugee economic activity may eventually have an adverse impact on nutritional status. The overall nutritional status of refugees from the Masisi area of Zaire residing in a refugee camp in Rwanda is poor, due mostly to the continued flow of new arrivals who are malnourished. Current estimates of affected populations by country of present residence are given in the box below:
The security situation in Rwanda remains generally calm. However, a number of attacks reportedly launched by infiltrators from Zairian refugee camps have occurred in the neighbouring western prefectures of Cyangugu, Kibuye, Gisenyi and Ruhengeri [UN Jul 96, USAID 09/07/96]. There are approximately 576,000 people in Rwanda currently dependent on food aid (approx. 9% of the population). Although estimated agricultural production in 1996 has increased by 15% compared to last year, levels are still 23% below those harvested in 1990 prior to the escalation in civil conflict. The two factors inhibiting a faster rate of agricultural recovery are lack of high quality seeds, and the shortage and/or high prices of pesticides and other inputs [FAO 12/07/96, UN Jul 96]. There are no recent nutritional data on the Rwandan population, although the improving agricultural situation in conjunction with ready availability of food aid would indicate an adequate and stable nutritional situation. There is, however, considerable concern over the health and nutritional status of prisoners in detention centres. The most common reported diseases amongst this group are malaria, dysentery and respiratory diseases often linked to HIV infection. Furthermore, overcrowding and lack of water for washing is leading to a high incidence of skin disease [UN Jul 96]. Food aid is mainly distributed through food-for-work and income generating programmes (over 60%), although targeted assistance to the vulnerable people, e.g. orphans, detainees, and the internally displaced, continues. Numerous activities are taking place in the health sector, including the establishment of oral rehydration therapy centres in all regions, a national polio vaccination campaign, and a national growth monitoring and promotion programme [FAO 12/07/96, UN Jul 96]. The closure of refugee camps in Burundi has led to the voluntary, and in some case, forced, repatriation of all Rwandan refugees from Burundi. Returnees have been given food rations as well as non-food items, and have been transported to their communes of origin [UN Jul 96]. A recent movement of Burundi refugees to Rwanda which began in 27 June, has resulted in 5,700 new arrivals [WFP-a 27/09/96]. After a recent meeting between the Prime Ministers of Rwanda and Zaire, it was announced that the two countries would seek a “rapid” and “massive” repatriation of Rwandan refugees from Zaire, to be completed before the beginning of Zaire’s electoral process in May 1997. A statement was made that the Government of Zaire would begin the progressive closure of the camps and that the Rwandan Government would take measures to welcome and install the returnees [IRIN 25/08/96]. RNIS 16, June 1996Burundi/Rwanda Situation - Trend in numbers of refugees/displaced and proportion severely malnourished or at high nutritional risk (shaded area).
The total number of people affected by the regional emergency has remained virtually constant at about three million. Repatriation of Rwandan refugees is continuing at a very slow rate from Zaire and Tanzania, and both host governments are demonstrating increasing frustration with the lack of progress (i.e. the recent curtailment of economic activities in Zaire). The situation in Burundi has deteriorated significantly over the last few weeks, with insecurity spreading to almost every province of the country. As food and nutrition assessments are sporadic and dependant on the prevailing security situation, it is difficult to determine the effect of the insecurity on nutritional status of the population in Burundi. Serious disruptions in the food supply to the region are anticipated between September and December 1996. Currently there are limited supplies of corn soya blend (CSB) for the general ration and vegetable oil is lacking in several locations due to sporadic supplies and transport problems. Current estimates of affected populations by country of present residence are given in the box below:
UNIMIR, whose mandate expired on the 8th of March, are to be replaced by a UN office which will be charged with helping to promote national reconciliation, strengthening the judicial system, facilitating the return of refugees and rehabilitating the country's infrastructure. Approximately 737,000 vulnerable people, including displaced and returnee populations, are expected to require assistance during the first half of 1996 [DHA 18/04/96, USAID 23/05/96]. The security situation in most of the country is calm, with the exception of the western prefectures where there continue to be serious incidents involving planned attacks by interhamwe militia and RPA forces and frequent land-mine detonations. Cross border incursions into western areas appear to have intensified and to be better organised. Furthermore, transport companies are increasingly reluctant to deliver food aid and monitoring and evaluation activities in the area have been curtailed as a result of the insecurity [ICRC 03/06/96, IRIN 26/04/96, WFP 26/04/96, 10/05/96]. According to a recent survey by WFP/FAO and the Ministry of Agriculture, the food security situation in Rwanda appears to be improving with only an estimated 10% of the population structurally vulnerable due in large measure to unequal land distribution [WFP 10/05/96]. The largest share of WFP food allocations are now made though food for work and income generating activities (69%) but there are still some targeted general ration deliveries to vulnerable groups [DHA 18/04/96]. Approximately 46,000 refugee returnees arrived between Jan-April 1996, with the majority from Burundi (20,000) and Zaire (18,941) [WFP 10/05/96]. The number of returnees fell dramatically during the month of March, with only 5,700 people arriving as opposed to 23,000 during February. Intimidation and propaganda in camps were reportedly major factors in discouraging return of refugees [DHA 18/04/96]. Approximately 12,000 refugees from the Masisi and Rutshuru area of Zaire are currently being assisted in camps but as many as 50,000 may have crossed the border into Rwanda [WFP 17/05/96, IRIN 26/04/96]. Anecdotal reports indicate “serious levels of malnutrition” amongst this recent wave of refugees [WFP 10/05/96] RNIS 15, April 1996Trend in numbers of refugees/displaced and proportion severely malnourished or at high nutritional risk (shaded area).
The focus of discussions at a recently held summit meeting between the presidents of Rwanda, Burundi, Tanzania, Uganda and Zaire was on encouraging the repatriation of two million Rwandan and Burundi refugees, and to bring to a halt the emerging crisis in Burundi [WFP 22/03/96]. Fighting is continuing in parts of Burundi and placing those populations in insecure areas at nutritional risk. The government strategy of surrounding refugee camps in Goma and Bukavu with a view to restricting refugee activity and encouraging repatriation is continuing. However, in comparison to the overall number of refugees, there has been relatively little repatriation in recent weeks. Current estimates of affected populations by country of present residence are given in the box below:
The pace of repatriation of refugees sped up slightly during February, with a reported 23,000 refugees returning from neighbouring countries. The majority of returnees came from Burundi and Zaire [UN 15/03/96, WFP 08/03/96]. However, during the first half of March less than 3,000 refugees returned with most returnees coming from Zaire [WFP 28/03/96]. Refugees from the Masisi area of Zaire, where ethnic conflict has recently intensified, are continuing to arrive. The security situation in most of the country is reported as calm with the exception of the western border areas with Zaire where regular incursions and security incidents, such as a recent attack on an NGO vehicle in Cyangugu province, take place. The UN peacekeeping force (UNAMIL) will reportedly not have its mandate renewed and troops will be withdrawn by April 19. Trials of those with suspected involvement in the genocide will also begin at this time. A small political office representing the UN will remain open in Kigali [DHA 08/03/96, IRIN 22/03/96, WFP 01/03/96, 12/04/96]. It is expected that food aid will be needed for approximately 737,000 vulnerable people, including displaced and returnee populations, in the first half of 1996. It is anticipated that the food supply situation will remain tight in parts of the prefectures of Kibungo, Gikongoro, and Butare and in areas of Cyangugu, Kibuye and Gitarama. Elsewhere in the country, although the harvests have been satisfactory and markets are well supplied, the low purchasing power in the post-war economy still results in inadequate food access for large sections of the population. During February WFP distributed food to approximately 296,000 persons in all prefectures of Rwanda. The largest share of food was distributed through food for work and income-generating activities. Some 45,900 people believed to be vulnerable to food shortages were provided with general food rations through targeted assistance and seed protection programmes. [FAO 28/12/95, FAO Jan/Feb 96, UN 15/03/96]. The health sector is reportedly recovering with most of Rwanda's 250 health centres and 36 hospitals now operating. Morbidity and malnutrition rates among children are now believed to be lower than pre-war rates [USAID 18/03/96]. Although there are no new nutritional survey data, the recent harvest and relatively unimpeded food aid programme suggests that the nutritional status of the majority of people is likely to be satisfactory. However, it should be noted that short-falls of oil and sugar for food aid programmes are expected in April [WFP 08/03/96]. RNIS 14, February 1996Widespread insecurity in northern Burundi has led to some refugee displacement to Tanzania and movement into Uvira in Zaire. The insecurity has constrained relief deliveries in the area. There is also concern over cholera in the north, and limited population access to health facilities. Refugee repatriation from Zaire, Tanzania and Burundi to Rwanda is continuing at a steady but slow pace. Harvest estimates are better than last year but still well below pre-civil war levels so that emergency food aid will continue to be needed in Rwanda throughout 1996. The nutritional situation of refugees in Tanzania and Zaire is reportedly adequate. Burundi/Rwanda Region
Current estimates of affected populations by country of present residence are given in the box below:
With the exception of Cyangugu province, the overall security situation in the country appears to be improving with a continual decline in reported security incidents over the past six months. UNAMIR has now received a final mandate extension until March 8th with its primary role being to facilitate the voluntary and safe repatriation of Rwandan refugees. Weekly repatriation rates from neighbouring countries have ranged from approximately 1,000 to over 4,000 over the past six weeks. The majority of returnees come from Zaire and Burundi [WFP 12/01/96, 19/01/96]. Results from the WFP/FAO annual crop assessment mission indicate that yields are better than last year but still well below pre-civil war levels. It is expected that food aid assistance will still be needed for approximately 737,000 vulnerable people, including displaced and returnees, in the first half of 1996. Given the unpredictability of rates of repatriation, these estimates may need to be significantly revised at some subsequent date. Areas in Kibungo, Butare and Byumba prefectures are all reporting poor harvests due to erratic rainfall. Food for work programmes are now being targeted at the most vulnerable in these areas. Although, there are currently no new nutritional data, the improved harvest in conjunction with the targeted food aid programme suggests that the majority of the Rwandan population currently enjoy a relatively stable food security situation [FAO 28/12/95, WFP 19/01/96]. RNIS 13, December 1995Burundi/Rwanda Region - Trend in numbers of refugees/displaced and proportion severely malnourished or at high nutritional risk (shaded area).
The nutritional situation for approximately three million people affected in the region remains generally adequate with low levels of wasting reported in most surveys carried out in recent months. However, the security situation in Burundi is reportedly deteriorating and causing displacement of people, may of whom are inaccessible to relief. The high level of insecurity is said to be affecting planting for the next rice crop. There are also health problems in a number of refugee camps in Uvira some of which are still showing elevated levels of wasting. Levels of oedema appear high in several camps. Repatriation from Tanzania and Zaire is continuing although there has been confusion over the Zairian government announcement that all refugees must be repatriated before the end of the year. Current estimates of affected populations by country of present residence are given in the box below:
Security incidents involving clashes between the Former Rwandan Government Forces (FRGF) and RPA continue to be reported inside Rwanda. There have also been numerous land-mine explosions - particularly in western areas bordering Zaire. There are constant reports of sabotage related incursions by FRGF rebels from the Zairian camps into Rwanda. Judicial processes for those participating in the genocide are expected to start in the near future [WFP 27/10/95 - 17/11/95]. Repatriation from Zairian, Tanzanian and Burundi refugee camps is continuing with over 11,000 returnees reported during October. Over 200,000 refugees have now repatriated between January and September 1995. WFP and UNHCR have recently agreed to distribute an initial two-month food ration to all returnees in way stations and transit centres, instead of the previous one month ration, in order to provide additional time for the planning of follow-up distributions once the returnees have reached their final destination. Food aid is also distributed though food for work and income generating activities (68% of food distributed), targeted feeding (8% of food distributed) and institutional feeding (14% of food distributed) [WFP 27/10/95 - 17/11/95]. Despite the partial recovery in food security inside Rwanda due to the August 1995 harvest, as many as 800,000 people may still be vulnerable to food shortages as the prospects for the January harvest remain poor. These vulnerable families are mainly female headed households, returnees without land and remaining refugees and internally displaced groups [FAO Oct 95]. A recent nutritional survey conducted in Kigali showed an adequate nutritional situation. Wasting was measured at 5% and severe wasting was 0.6% in children. Oedema was measured at 0.3% (see Annex 1 (4d)). Measles immunisation coverage was 98% and the under-five mortality rate was 0.17/10,000/day (below normal). Adult wasting was measured at 10.7% with severe wasting at 0.5% (see Annex 1 (4e)). The crude mortality rate was very low at 0.09/10,000/day [AICF Sep 95]. RNIS 12, October 1995With the exception of some camps around Uvira, in Zaire the nutritional status of most refugees, returnees and internally displaced people in the region is reported to generally remain adequate, in spite of persistent 20-30% short-falls in general ration allocations in the Zairian and Tanzanian refugee camps. The recent forced repatriation of Burundi and Rwandan refugees from Zaire has increased tensions. Re-registration in the Tanzanian camps has adversely affected relations between refugees, government and aid agencies. Voluntary repatriation is being encouraged although many refugees are reluctant to return home. Insecurity in parts of Burundi has rendered certain populations inaccessible while rebel incursions along the Zairian/Rwandan border are routinely reported. However, increasing numbers of people are returning to their land in Burundi while in Rwanda the process of rebuilding the damaged infrastructure is said to be progressing well. B. Burundi/Rwanda Region
Current estimates of affected populations by country of present residence are given in the box below:
The population of Rwanda is presently estimated at 5,885,000, of which 5,450,000 are rural and dependent on agricultural production. There are no longer any camps for displaced people; these were closed in May 1995. It is thought that vulnerable families who are mostly recent returnees or internally displaced account for 15% of this population (725,000). Almost 30% of households in Rwanda are female-headed. Food distributions to recent returnees and formerly internally displaced people are continuing but problems with distribution lists often delay allocations. These targeted distributions are taking place to large populations in Butare, Kigali, Giterama, Gisenyi and Gikongoro [WFP 15/09/95]. During the course of 1995 a total of 186,000 refugees have returned to Rwanda. A system of way stations and agricultural support schemes is in operation for most returnee households. The low level of repatriation has proven very disappointing to the international aid community and is believed to reflect lack of confidence amongst Rwandans in the authorities' ability to guarantee their safety upon return [WFP 18/08/95, 11/09/95, 22/09/95]. The Zairian/Rwandan border is still officially closed, although the movement of aid workers and convoys with returnees is still allowed. Poor road conditions have hampered food distributions in some parts of Rwanda but food for work projects are said to be rapidly restoring damaged infrastructure [WFP 25/08/95, 01/09/95]. The recent harvest in Rwanda, although an improvement over previous years, is still 40% below a good year's average so that large amounts of food aid are projected to be necessary in the coming year [FAO 18/07/95]. There have only been a small number of recent nutritional surveys. A national nutritional survey in May 1995 found 9.7% wasting (see Annex I (4a)) while another survey during May in three communes of one prefecture (unspecified) found o |
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