Sub-Saharan Africa

1. Angola

A twenty year long conflict in Angola led to widescale displacement and disruption of farming activities. The conflict ended with the signing of the Lusaka peace accords in November 1994. However, many people remain in need of humanitarian assistance due largely to continued insecurity and the presence of landmines. The war has left the country's infrastructure in ruins and although security and access to the country had improved greatly, recent reports of increasing insecurity and banditry are giving cause for concern. For example, the security situation in Benguela, Huila, Malange and Uige provinces is described as serious and has restricted UN and NGO humanitarian and rehabilitation efforts. There has also been some remining of roads [FAO 20/05/98, IRIN 08/05/98, WFP 12/06/98].

A recommendation to extend the mandate of the UN Observer Mission in Angola for two months has recently been approved. Most troops will be withdrawn by July 1^st 1998, with a small number remaining in the country until the end of 1998 [IRIN 30/04/98].

Cereal Production in Angola over time

taken from: FAO/WFO Crop and Food Supply Assessment Mission to Angola, 20 May 1998.

It is estimated that 750,000 people currently require emergency assistance, a 25% reduction compared to 1997. The most important factors influencing the decrease has been the successful resettlement of around 60-80,000 people in 1997/8. Good harvests have also been a contributing factor. This 750,000 includes internally displaced people, returnees and demobilised soldiers. In addition, food assistance will be required to assist the rehabilitation process. Although levels of wasting appear to be generally low in the country (about 5% - see RNIS 22, 23), food insecurity is widespread due to a number of factors. These vary by population group and region, but generally include:

· lack of access to agricultural lands and inputs;
· low purchasing power due to high inflation and stagnant incomes;
· poor infrastructure;
· inaccessibility of some areas [FAO 20/05/98].

There are approximately 260,000 Angolans living as refugees in Congo-Brazzaville, Democratic People's Republic of Congo, Namibia and Zambia. About 10,000 people have returned to Angola so far in 1998. It is hoped that the rate of return will increase with the end of the rains in May. UNHCR is concentrating on some 200 quick impact projects in the heavily war-damaged southern and eastern provinces. These are rapid projects which aim to improve the infrastructure in areas of return, such as construction of roads or community centres [UNHCR 08/05/98].

Overall, the population in need of humanitarian assistance is not currently thought to be at heightened nutritional risk (category IIc in Table 1), but if the security situation continues to deteriorate, that is likely to change.

On-going interventions: Assuming that the security situation improves, programmes such as those outlined in the UN Consolidated Appeal and highlighted in the last RNIS Report to address some of the underlying causes of food insecurity should continue or be taken up. These include:

· a continued emphasis on demining;

· rebuilding the health infrastructure and improving the water supply;

· rebuilding of the market system and roads to allow for food to be re-distributed from surplus to deficit areas;

· ensuring adequate access to agricultural inputs before the next planting season, due to begin in September/October in some areas, along with support of activities designed to ensure adequate supplies of appropriate seeds;

· a focus on increased agricultural production through training in and support for appropriate agricultural techniques, such as animal traction.

2. Burundi/Rwanda (Great Lakes) Region

Insecurity in Burundi, Rwanda and Eastern Democratic People's Republic of Congo (DRC) is leading to a fresh wave of population displacements and negatively affecting food security for many people. There are reports of very high levels of wasting in parts of Burundi and in Rwanda, poor crop production due to heavy rains and logistical problems affecting food aid deliveries are reportedly leading to reduced food security. The Burundi and Congolese refugees in Tanzania are generally in good nutritional condition although there are high levels of malaria in some camps.

Location	Dec. 96	Mar. 97	Jun. 97	Sep. 97	Dec. 97	Mar. 98	Jun. 98
Burundi	296,000	300,000	265,000	260,000	570,000	600,000	670,000
Rwanda	1,179,000	2,600,000	2,600,000	727,000	1,400,000	690,000	550,000
Tanzania	759,000	344,000	390,000	311,000	318,000	345,000	329,000
DRC	668,000	599,000	514,000	823,000	585,000	568,500	621,000
Congo/Brazzaville	-	-	-	465,000	650,000	400,000	50,000
Malawi	-	-	-	1,200	1,200	260	-
Total	2,913,500	3,843,000	3,769,000	2,587,200	3,542,200	2,553,770	2,220,000

Burundi There are approximately 670,000 displaced people in Burundi, but it is likely that not all of these people require emergency aid. This number includes many people in 'regroupment camps' throughout the country. Improvements in security conditions allowed some of the population in the regroupment and displacement camps to return to their farms during the second half of 1997. However, insecurity and resulting population displacements continue. For example, there were over 18,000 new arrivals to the commune of Isale fleeing fighting in early April [IRIN 27 Mar-2 Apr 98, 04/06/98].

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Efforts to resolve the ongoing crisis in Burundi are continuing. Peace talks will resume in Arusha on 15 June against the backdrop of a somewhat improved relationship between the government and parliament. This improved relationship resulted in the recent signing of a transitional constitution. The breakthrough over the constitution is a hopeful sign for a resolution to the conflict [IRIN-a 10/06/98].

Food assistance is currently provided through several programmes including emergency relief for those displaced by conflict and insecurity and return packages for displaced persons and refugees returning home. There are also supplementary and therapeutic feeding programmes for malnourished and vulnerable groups where possible, as well as infrastructure rehabilitation programmes through food-for-work [FAO May 98, WFP 08/05/98, 22/05/98].

Food security and nutritional status in many parts of the country are precarious due to a combination of factors including insecurity, poor harvests, an economic embargo and poor road and rail systems to transport food throughout the country. This is leading to price increases rendering adequate quantities of food beyond the reach of many people. Forecasts are that there will be a small decline in the 1998 A season harvest (first of three annual harvests) compared to 1997 and that this will be 20% lower than the pre-crisis average. Yields have been affected by lack of agricultural inputs and late but exceptionally heavy rains and flooding. Total food production for 1998 is predicted to be 9% below the 1988-93 average. WFP is planning a second airlift of essential food commodities into Bujumbura in order to have enough stocks to meet emergency food needs. On a more positive note, the April 1998 decision to ease economic sanctions has allowed renewed activity in some economic sectors, particularly trade [FAO My 98, WFP 08/05/98, 22/05/98].

Nutrition surveys continue to reveal alarming levels of malnutrition. For example, a recent survey of accessible communes in Cibitoke Province (estimated population 310,000) showed 14.0% wasting with 3.3% severe wasting. Oedema was measured at 7.2% (see Annex I (2a)). The crude mortality rate was measured at 3.3/10,000/day, and the under-five mortality rate was 5.0/10,000/day. These mortality rates indicate a very serious emergency. Measles immunisation coverage, as confirmed by a vaccination card was low at 9.9% [CONCERN 18/04/98].

Most of the population has access to food through their own production and approximately 80% of the households surveyed had access to land. However, normal agricultural practices have been interrupted due to a number of constraints including insecurity and reduced availability of seeds and tools. At the time of the survey, the population was mainly relying on cassava as the staple food. In addition, health service delivery was inadequate with a shortage of medicine and health staff [CONCERN 18/04/98].

The last RNIS Report (No 23) described a worrying nutritional situation in the accessible areas of Bubanza province with wasting levels of 16%. One of the main recommendations of the survey was to establish feeding programmes in the area. A therapeutic feeding centre with a capacity for 750 people has now been opened. Supplementary feeding centres are also being opened [IRIN 01-07/05/98].

Available information points to a serious nutritional situation. The number of patients at the nutritional recovery centres and health and nutrition centres throughout the country is rising and mortality rates are high. There are many malnourished adults amongst the cases of malnutrition seen, suggesting a serious situation in many areas. However, a national assessment of malnutrition has yet to be carried out, and many areas remain inaccessible.

Congo/Brazzaville Rail traffic between Brazzaville and Pointe Noire was suspended following clashes between government troops and supporters of the ousted president. This adversely affected the supply of food in Brazzaville until transport was re-established in mid-May. It is currently estimated that 50,000 people in the country need emergency assistance. During March, food was delivered to 46,000 vulnerable Congolese. A survey conducted in Brazzaville in February showed that the prevalence of malnutrition had increased from 5.5% in January to 9.3% (see Annex I (2b)) [OCHA-a 29/04/98, WFP 10/04/98,15/05/98].

There are an estimated 6,300 Rwandan refugees in three northern camps and close to 2,900 at Kintele camp near Brazzaville. As the three northern camps are geographically isolated and are plagued by mosquitoes and malaria, some Rwandan refugees have been moving from there to Kintele [OCHA-a 29/04/98].

An earthquake struck the region of Likouala. There are currently no details on the extent of the damage in the area [IRIN 30/04/98].

Eastern Democratic Republic of Congo There are substantial population movements in the Eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). These include returnees from Tanzania who are brought to the Uvira area, new arrivals from Burundi in Uvira and newly displaced people in the Goma region. Heavy rains have left many people homeless, led to the further deterioration of the road system and hampered food deliveries. In addition, there are reports of cholera in the Kivu areas of eastern DRC, which includes Uvira and Bukavu [IRIN 27 Mar-2 Apr 98, WHO 19/05/98].

There are an increasing number of reports of insecurity in eastern DRC, specifically in the Kivu region. Recent examples include an attack by rebel forces on Beni and rebel attacks on Butembo in north Kivu which resulted in the deaths of at least 30 people [IRIN 03-09/04/98, 22-28/05/98, IRIN 24/04/98].

Repatriation from Tanzania continues. Returnees are provided with a one-month ration in Uvira before moving on to their final destination. However, the pace of repatriation is somewhat slower than initially planned because of travel difficulties, mainly due to the poor condition of the roads. Since the resumption of the operation in mid-December, over 33,000 Congolese refugees have been repatriated [WFP 17/04/98].

There are new arrivals from Burundi to the Uvira area. These refugees are fleeing insecurity in Burundi and approximately 10,000 people have crossed the border since January 1998. These newly arrived refugees are said to be in poor health and malnourished. There are reports that some refugees are being forced back to Burundi [IRIN 03-09/04/98, WFP 10/04/98, 01/05/98].

Assistance was provided to those affected by flooding in Kisangani, as detailed in the last RNIS report (No 23), along with former children combatants housed in a camp nearby. This assistance was completed at the end of April [WFP 01/05/96].

Rebel incursions from Rwanda have forced approximately 20,000 people to flee their homes in Goma for safer areas farther from the border. These newly displaced people are without shelter or health care facilities. There are estimated to be 129,000 internally displaced people in Eastern DRC [IRIN 04/06/98, WFP 15/05/98].

Continuing transport constraints due mainly to poor road conditions, have meant that food stocks in eastern DRC are low. By the end of April 1998, distributions needed to be targeted to a restricted number of beneficiaries [WFP 03/04/98, 24/04/98].

Other refugees and IDPs in DRC There are a number of other refugee and IDP populations in the DRC:

· Rwandan refugees There are estimated to be 37,000 Rwandan refugees scattered in Eastern and Central DRC. In addition, there are approximately 3,000 unaccompanied Rwandan in DRC [RNIS 23]. There are no nutritional data available for these refugees.

· Internally displaced from Shaba There have been no new nutritional data on the approximately 260,000 resident and displaced people in Mwene Ditu since October 1995 when levels of wasting as high as 42% were seen (see RNIS #14). It is not clear whether this lack of data is because the population has been successfully assimilated or that the population are not accessible. It may also be that there are no agencies working in the area who can provide information on the population.

· Angolan refugees There are approximately 150,000 Angolan refugees in the DRC, 50,000 of whom require assistance. Prior to an upsurge in fighting in Angola, some spontaneous repatriation was occurring (see RNIS #21).

· Sudanese refugees There are approximately 111,000 Sudanese refugees in the DRC who are fleeing the continuing insecurity in Sudan (RNIS #21).

· Ugandan refugees There are approximately 4,000 Ugandan refugees in Eastern DRC. There has been some repatriation back to Uganda in recent weeks [WFP 22/05/98].

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].

Tanzania There are approximately 329,000 refugees in Tanzania comprised mainly of 275,000 Burundian refugees in the Kigoma and Ngara regions and 51,000 Congolese refugees, mainly in the Kigoma region. There are also about 3,000 Rwandan refugees in the Ngara region. Organised repatriation is continuing for the Burundi and Congolese refugees. To date, approximately 45,000 Congolese and 2,000 Burundi refugees have returned home. However, people continue to arrive from Burundi, and their number is reported to be greater than those being repatriated [UNHCR 10/06/98, WFP 03/04/98, 01/05/98, 15/05/98].

The last RNIS Report (no 23) described a situation where rations were reduced in Kigoma and Ngara camps because of difficulties in transporting commodities due to heavy rains. Road conditions improved with the dry season, and as of the end of April 1998, ration provision has improved accordingly. A rapid assessment in April using MUAC showed a stable nutritional situation in spite of the ration reductions [UNHCR 10/06/98, WFP 10/04/98,17/04/98].

Malnutrition in Refugee Camps in Tanzania, May 1998

taken from: Preliminary Results of Nutritional Surveys in Tanzania, UNHCR, May 1998

Overall, those requiring emergency assistance in Burundi, along with the Burundi refugees and the displaced people in Eastern DRC are at heightened nutritional risk (category IIa in Table 1) due to problems in delivering aid largely as a result of insecurity and poor road conditions. Nothing is known about the nutritional status of the Rwandan refugees in DRC or the IDPs from Shaba (category III in Table 1). The remaining refugees in DRC are not at heightened nutritional risk (category IIc in Table 1). The affected population in Rwanda can be considered to be at moderate nutritional risk (category IIb in Table 1) with a tendency toward deterioration due to food insecurity. Indeed, anecdotal reports are of malnutrition in many areas. The refugees in Tanzania can also be considered to be at moderate risk due to high rates of anaemia and malaria, with a tendency towards improvement as measures are being taken. The remaining refugees in the region are not currently considered to be at heightened risk (category IIc in Table 1).

On-going interventions The UN Consolidated Appeal for the Great Lakes Region, key aspects of which were summarised in RNIS 23, has, as of the end of May, met with a disappointing response with only 9% of needs being pledged. In the region, it is clear that programmes must be predicated on full, uninterrupted access to beneficiary populations for maximum benefit. Regional improvement of road and rail systems is imperative.

In Burundi, it is important to systematically quantify malnutrition rates throughout the country for short-term interventions, and to assess underlying causes so that longer-term corrective measures can be taken. However, until security allows for full and regular access to populations, agencies will continue to be dependent on a short-term strategy of implementing selective feeding programmes where needs can be ascertained. Overland transport (road and rail) needs to be improved in order to deliver aid. Consideration might also be given to some form of market intervention which reduces the impact of inflation on the vulnerable.

In Congo, there is a need for a concerted campaign to address the malaria problem in the three northern camps for Rwandan refugees.

In DRC, poor road conditions due in large measure to the recent rains are hampering returnee movement and food aid deliveries. Roads must be improved as a priority. There is also a need for further nutritional information on newly arrived Burundi refugees in Uvira region and on the remaining scattered Rwandan refugees. Shelter and health care provision for the newly displaced in Goma region are also areas of concern.

In Rwanda, every effort should be made to secure stocks of pulses and oil for food-for-work projects which recently have only been able to provide cereals. Better information on the situation people in Rwanda are facing is needed to target appropriate interventions. This would include:

· nutrition and food security assessments in Butare and Gikongoro prefectures and in Kibungo resettlement camp, where there are increasing concerns due to anecdotal reports of malnutrition;

· information on recent returnees, who are thought to be most affected by the worsening food security situation;

· information on population movements as a result of insecurity to determine appropriate interventions.

In Tanzania, the need to improve roads in the regions of refugee concentration is on-going. Some projects are underway during the current dry season. In addition, funds for the procurement of impregnated bednets are needed.

3. Chad

There are reports of 8,500 arrivals from Sudan in Chad. These refugees left the Darfur region of Sudan, fleeing ethnic clashes. Food and non-food distributions will be made to this population before the beginning of the rainy season in June [WFP 15/05/98, 02/06/98].

4. Djibouti

There are approximately 23,600 refugees in Djibouti, 21,400 of whom require assistance. This total assisted population is mainly comprised of 20,400 Somali refugees and 1,000 Ethiopian refugees. One of the three camps is now closed and the population re-settled in the two remaining camps. There are reports of a pilot repatriation being planned for the Somali refugees [UNHCR 18/05/98].

5. Ethiopia

There are approximately 287,700 refugees in Ethiopia. This total is mainly comprised of 205,000 Somali refugees in the east and 60,000 Sudanese refugees in the west of the country [UNHCR 18/05/98]. There are, in addition, about 8,700 Kenyan refugees, 3,000 Djibouti refugees, and 11,000 internally displaced people around Addis Ababa.

There were a total of approximately 249,000 Somali refugees in eastern Ethiopia including the Dolo region as of April 1998. Since that time, almost 28,400 people have voluntarily repatriated and it is hoped the number will reach at least 60,000 before the end of 1998. Repatriation is temporarily halted due to the rainy season, but is intended to restart in July when the rains stop. There are approximately 60,300 Sudanese refugees in the western part of the country. This represents an increase in the population due to new arrivals from Sudan [UNHCR 18/05/98].

Previous RNIS reports (see RNIS Nos. 22 and 23) described an unsatisfactory nutritional situation for the refugees in the camps in Ethiopia, both for the Somali refugees in the east and the Sudanese refugees in the west. This was attributed to a number of factors including poor access to clean water, somewhat erratic ration deliveries and inequities resulting from the food distribution system [UNHCR 18/05/98].

Access to clean water is being improved in various ways. For example, the construction of shallow wells in Teferi Ber and Darwanaji have eliminated the need to bring water in by tankers. Access to clean water in Fugnido camp in the west has been improved since March 1998 with the installation of new pipes and reservoirs, along with motorised pumps [UNDP 30/04/98, UNHCR 15/04/98].

The food distribution system is being revised in Ethiopia with plans to distribute rations to heads of households irrespective of gender. The new distribution system, which was one of the recommendations of the WFP/UNHCR Joint Food Assessment Mission, incorporates the full and active participation of women. The new food distribution system was successfully piloted in Kebre Beyah in May 1998 and will be introduced to the other camps [UNHCR 10/06/98].

The improvement in water supplies along with revised food distribution systems are likely to have a positive impact on the nutritional situation of the refugees in Ethiopia. This will likely be shown in the annual nutrition surveys, planned for May-July 1998.

However, the food delivery pipeline to the western camps remains precarious. Rations for March did not arrive in the camps until the middle of the month while deliveries for April did not arrive until the third week of the month. As a result of these delays, most of the refugee population, especially in Bonga, were searching for wild foods in the surrounding forests [UNDP 30/04/98].

There are growing tensions related to an Ethiopian/Eritrean border dispute. Both countries are said to be massing troops at the border, and it is feared that if the conflict escalates, that there could be a destabilising effect on the region.

Overall, the Somali refugees in the east are considered to be at moderate nutritional risk (category IIb in Table 1), with a tendency toward improvement with the improved water supply. The Sudanese refugees in the west continue to be considered to be at high risk (category I in Table 1) of malnutrition and mortality. No information is currently available on the other population groups (category III in Table 1).

On-going interventions The efficacy and equity of the newly established food distribution systems will need to be assessed and efforts to improve the water supply in a number of camps should continue. Reports of a fragile food pipeline for the camps in the west need to be investigated and efforts made to remedy this problem. A nutrition survey, planned for the May-July period will help determine whether the recent late deliveries of food aid have had any nutritional impact. Such information may prove useful for advocacy purposes.

6. Kenya

There are approximately 120,000 Somali refugees in the Dadaab area camps, and 59,000 refugees in Kakuma. Most of the refugees in Kakuma are of Sudanese origin [UNHCR 31/03/98]. In the most recent RNIS report (No 23), flooding in the Dadaab area camps leading to destruction of infrastructure and livestock was described. Flooding had made many access roads to the camps impassable, and relief food had to be airdropped to the refugees. It was therefore only possible to supply half-rations for this population. Indeed, rations receipts have consistently been less than planned since March 1997. In February 1998, the floods had receded to the point where a nutritional survey was carried out to determine the effects of the floods on the nutritional status of the population.

Malnutrition in the Dadaab Area Camps for Somali Refugees in Kenya, over time

taken from: Nutritional Survey report for Ifo, Dagahaley and Hagadera Camps, MSF-B, Feb. 98

In general the nutritional status of the children under five has not changed significantly in the Dadaab area camps since August 1997 (see graph). The exceptions to this were in Ifo and Dagahaley camps, which were most seriously affected by the floods. White levels of wasting remain high, the fact that there was no decline in nutritional status is thought to be due in large part to massive efforts by WFP to airlift food aid to the affected population during the floods. By the end of April, food supplies were back to normal and full rations were distributed after six weeks of half rations. Road repairs have now been effected allowing better access to the camps [IRIN 17-23 Apr. 98, MSF-B Feb. 1998].

In Ifo and Hagadera, rates of malnutrition are highest amongst those households that have no ration cards. This is of concern as following the floods in Somalia, a new influx of refugees arrived in poor nutritional condition. These new arrivals are dependent of food sharing until they are registered or return to Somalia [MSF-B Feb. 98].

Kakuma camp (population estimated at 59,000) houses mainly Sudanese refugees with a high proportion of unaccompanied minors. Mortality rates in the camp in March were 0.13/10,000/day and the under-five mortality rate was 0.45/10,000/day. This represents a significant decline and is largely due to a reduction in malaria-related mortality. Both of these mortality rates are within usual limits. Funding is being sought for a number of projects to maintain and expand water supply, income generating projects and for recreational and sports projects [CWS 08/05/98, UNHCR 31/03/98].

Overall, the refugees in the Dadaab camps can be considered to be at moderate nutritional risk (category IIb in Table 1), although the situation appears to be stable. Those in Kakuma are not currently thought to be at heightened risk of malnutrition and mortality (category IIc in Table 1).

On-going interventions Coverage of the selective feeding programmes needs to be improved in the Dadaab camps. This should be achievable through the existing community health outreach programmes. A nutritional survey should be repeated in six months time partly to help assess selective feeding programme coverage. Finally, water availability is still somewhat low and needs to be improved.

7. Liberia/Sierra Leone Region

This regional refugee/IDP situation is the result of two separate conflicts in very different stages of resolution. In Liberia, the security situation appears mainly under control, and refugees and IDPs are returning home. In Sierra Leone, despite much of the western part of the country being calm, there continue to be reports of clashes in the eastern part of the country, leading to a huge influx of refugees into Guinea. These refugees consistently recount appalling stories of atrocities committed against the civilian population by the retreating rebels. Many of these refugees are arriving malnourished and in poor health after spending weeks in the bush before reaching the camps.

Location	Dec. 96	Mar. 97	Jun. 97	Sep. 97	Dec. 97	Mar. 98	Jun. 98
Liberia	1,800,000	1,100,000	710,000	700,000	700,000	726,000	209,000
Sierra Leone	609,000	548,000	453,000	453,000	200,000*	200,000*	300,000*
Cote d'Ivoire	305,000	305,000	305,000	210,000	210,000	210,000	140,000
Guinea	536,000	536,000	545,000	405,000	405,000	405,000	614,000
Total	3,250,000	2,489,000	2,013,000	1,768,000	1,515,000	1,541,000	1,263,000

* Numbers requiring humanitarian assistance may be far higher than the current estimate.

Some refugees as well as internally displaced people are returning home. Around 100,000 Liberian refugees have returned since the elections (30,000 assisted by UNHCR and 70,000 spontaneously) while a further 100,000 have registered with UNHCR to return. Food distributions are no longer carried out in the displaced shelters, rather rations are provided upon arrival in their communes. This is intended to encourage people to travel home. As of early May approximately 67,000 had benefited from food aid in this way. In addition, approximately 155,000 people receive aid in the form of food-for-work programmes, vulnerable group feeding and school feeding programmes [OCHA 15/05/98, WFP 08/05/98].

It is hoped that a series of food security assessments will provide an understanding of how communities, and groups within communities are coping and what types of survival strategies are indicative of abnormal or severe stress. This understanding would help in the identification of location-specific security indicators which could be monitored for early warning purposes. It would also allow for better targeting of resources. This type of monitoring and targeting will become more critical as emergency food aid is slowly phased out. In order to co-ordinate assessments in Liberia, a 'Food Security Forum' is being set up with WFP as the focal point. This forum will aim to develop common methodologies and share information among agencies (see Special Focus in RNIS 23 on 'Food Security in Liberia'). There is, in addition, a 'Joint Food Security Monitoring System'¹ to coordinate information, particularly from food security assessments, during and beyond this transition phase. This system works with the Food Security Forum in terms of partnership in the field for assessments and analysis of data collected [WFP 09/06/98].

¹ This is a system whereby three NGOs monitor the food security situation in 90% of the country. This is coordinated by WFP with institutional links to decision-making committees in Liberia such as the Seeds and Tools Committee and the Food Aid Committee.

It was therefore determined that purchase and exchange of food was and will be the most important source of food. Selling palm oil might be an adequate source of income for male-headed households; however, this is likely to be inadequate for female-headed households. Women will most likely depend on labour-intensive, less profitable work like palm kernel collection and processing, which will have adverse short and medium-term effects such as:

· female-headed households will spend considerably more time than male-headed households acquiring sufficient food and seeds for the family;

· children, particularly girls, are likely to be taken out of school to help;

· time and energy spent to meet immediate needs means less is available to invest in agriculture, limiting their possibilities for next year.

Malnutrition in Upper Bong County, Liberia, over time

taken from: Nutritional Survey Upper Bong, Liberia, Action contre la Faim, April 1998

In Buchanan, Grand Bassa County, a recent survey confirmed a stable nutritional situation with 6.7% wasting and 1.2% severe wasting. Oedema was measured at 0.3% (see Annex I (7b)). Measles immunisation coverage is improving, but is still low at 46%, as confirmed by a vaccination card [ACF 19/02/98].

The return of refugees and internally displaced populations is somewhat slower than the international community had hoped. This is felt to be due in large measure to the poor state of the roads and bridges. In light of this, rehabilitation of roads and bridges along major routes is being undertaken. In addition, poor access to services such as education and health is also likely to be a factor in lower than expected rates of return. The services available in Liberia tend to be of a lower standard and higher cost when compared to those available in Guinea or Cote d'Ivoire [IRIN 03-09/04/98, WFP 03/04/98, WFP 08/06/98].

An upsurge in fighting in Sierra Leone (see below) has led to the influx of approximately 54,000 refugees to the Vahun region of Liberia. The last RNIS report described the food security situation in the region before this new influx. The main findings of that assessment were that:

· access to safe drinking water was a problem;

· people had good access to food through their own production or via contract labour for cash or through gifts;

· lack of money was a serious problem;

· roads were in poor condition but there was trade with Sierra Leone.

The onset of the rainy season is likely to render the population in Vahun inaccessible as road conditions deteriorate. Efforts are being made to encourage the refugees to move to a more easily accessible site near Kolahun. Meanwhile, assistance will continue in Vahun for as long as access remains feasible. Unfortunately, there is only a small airstrip in Vahun so airlifting food is not an option [OCHA 15/05/98].

Sierra Leone Sierra Leone has experienced many waves of violence since an offensive was launched in 1991 to overthrow the government. Kabbah was elected President in March 1996, and later that year a peace accord was signed. However, a coup d'etat in May 1997 led to a military take-over of the government and threw the country back into conflict. The coup was condemned by the international community and ECOMOG forces, a West African peace-keeping force, began a military campaign to oust the rebels and re-instate the President. Prior to this most recent upsurge in violence, there were estimated to be 200,000 internally displaced people requiring emergency humanitarian assistance.

Currently, Freetown, Bo and Kenema are calm, while the security situation in eastern and southeastern Sierra Leone remains poor with many clashes between ECOMOG and rebel forces. There are at least 100,000 newly displaced people in Sierra Leone. There are an estimated 244,000 new arrivals in Guinea and 54,000 in Lofa county in Liberia. There are many reports of appalling atrocities committed by the rebels including rape and mutilation of civilians. Refugees are reportedly arriving in Guinea traumatised and exhausted. There are also reports of high levels of malnutrition, malaria and diarrhoea amongst the new refugees [IRIN-WA 24-30/04/98, 15-21/05/98, OCHA 06/05/98, WFP 10/04/98].

A nutrition survey was carried out in four camps for the displaced in Freetown at the end of January 1998. In Waterloo Camp, wasting was measured at 3.0% with no severe wasting. Oedema was measured at 0.6%. Measles immunisation coverage, as confirmed by a vaccination card, was low at 15.3%. There was a similar situation in Clay Factory where wasting was measured at 5.5%; no cases of severe wasting or oedema were seen. Measles immunisation coverage was also low at 19.2%. These levels of wasting are no higher than those of the local and displaced population in the town. In the two smaller camps at Ross Road and OIC, the situation was worse with wasting measured at 21% and 15% respectively (see Annex I (7d-g)) [ACF 29/01/98].

Since the survey, Freetown has been the scene of fierce fighting between ECOMOG and rebel forces. This fighting meant that the capital was inaccessible for many weeks and at the end of March, a total of 20,000 children under five and 10,000 adults were being targeted with supplementary feeding programmes [WFP 03/04/98].

A survey carried out in Freetown in March 1998, which did not include those in displaced camps as in the survey above, showed a slight trend toward deterioration in the nutritional status in children under five years old. Wasting was measured at 9.1% with 0.4% severe wasting. The 6-29 month age group was particularly affected. No cases of oedema were noted in the survey (see Annex I (7h)). Reasons for this slight deterioration include price increases as a result of diminished supplies. This was due to problems with food movement on a national level as a result of insecurity. In addition, complementary food is introduced at an early age, in times of food stress is watered down as a coping mechanism, which may partially explain higher levels of wasting in the 6-29 month age group when compared to the 30-59 month old group. Measles immunisation coverage, as confirmed by an immunisation card, was low at 38% [ACF 28/03/98].

Malnutrition in Bo Town, Sierra Leone, over time

taken from: Nutritional Anthropometric Survey in Bo, Sierra Leone April 1998.

There are reports of measles epidemics, particularly among the displaced populations. Mass immunisation campaigns are continuing in safe areas [UNICEF 22/05/98].

Insecurity remains a serious problem in the eastern part of Sierra Leone and the rainy season will make access to populations in need more difficult. In addition, the insecurity has prevented many farmers from planting crops meaning they will require humanitarian assistance for some time to come. Several NGOs are running out of food to continue programmes. There are also logistical problems because truckers are reluctant to travel to some areas for fear that their vehicles will be commandeered by the rebels [WFP 01/05/98].

Cote d'Ivoire There were approximately 210,000 Liberian refugees in Cote d'Ivoire. It is estimated that some 70,000 have returned to Liberia, leaving about 140,000 Liberian refugees in country [WFP 15/05/98]. There are no reports of change in the adequate nutritional status of these refugees.

Guinea While some Liberian refugees are returning home, the upsurge in violence has led to a large number of new arrivals from Sierra Leone to Guinea. As of the end of May, there were estimated to be 244,000 new arrivals, mostly in Gueckedou. Up to 300 people a day were crossing the border and there are reports of 50,000 people still in Sierra Leone but moving towards Guinea [IRIN-WA 15-21/05/98]. Based on these population movements, there are approximately 614,000 refugees in Guinea, 200,000 of whom are from Liberia and 414,000 of whom are from Sierra Leone.

Most of the new arrivals are women and children, and are suffering from malaria, respiratory illness, diarrhoea and malnutrition. They are arriving in Guinea having spent weeks in the bush without adequate food or shelter.

“The children and their mothers sleep in the open air, because there is no proper shelter.
Food and medicine for them is another serious problem,”
(Paramount Chief Abu Kongombba in IPS press release)

Furthermore, the new influx is straining the capacities of the existing camps and there are shortages of water, shelter and sanitary facilities. Food aid is being pre-positioned in anticipation of transport difficulties due to the coming rainy season [IPS 12/06/98, OCHA 06/05/98, WFP 15/05/98].

Overall, refugees in Liberia from Sierra Leone are at moderate nutritional risk with a tendency toward deterioration as the rainy season makes access more difficult. The IDPs in Sierra Leone are at heightened nutritional risk (category IIa in Table 1) due to insecurity. Initial survey results point to a less severe situation than was feared, but many areas remain unassessed. In Guinea, the Sierra Leonean refugees are at heightened risk (category IIa in Table 1). New refugees are arriving in bad condition, and the influx is stretching facilities for others. Liberian refugees in Guinea and Cote d'Ivoire are probably not at heightened nutritional risk (category IIc in Table 1).

On-going interventions In Liberia, funding for repatriation is needed; only about 10% of funding requested has been received to date. Rehabilitation of roads, health centres and schools already underway must continue. On-going measles immunisation campaigns also need continued support. As emergency food aid is phased out, great care needs to be taken to ensure that the process is gradual and that any evidence of nutritional decline as support is removed, is identified quickly. This requires careful monitoring. More specifically, in Vahun, efforts must continue to strengthen measles immunisation and to provide water and sanitation.

There is concern over a potential break in the food aid pipeline for Sierra Leone in June/July. Indeed some NGOs are running out of food and WFP is focusing on vulnerable group feeding and food-for-agriculture projects. Donors need to respond generously and as a matter of priority to appeals for this emergency. Measles immunisation and water chlorination continue as far as security allows. Food should be prepositioned for potential deliveries where possible and consideration must be given to ways of improving food deliveries in areas of conflict. This might entail strengthening security forces, and/or providing external transport fleets as the private sector is reluctant to risk their vehicles. Measles immunisation coverage needs to be improved in Waterloo and Clay Factory camps for the displaced. High levels of wasting in Rose Road and OIC camps need to be investigated and feeding programmes implemented as necessary.

WORLD FOOD PROGRAMME

Burundi/Rwanda/Tanzania/DR Congo Region Planning Figures, Food Requirements, and Food Shortfalls for the period June - December 1998 (as of 15 May 1998)

Regional Monthly Requirements: 21,529 metric tons (MT)
(based on an average of 1,398,365 beneficiaries/month*)

Regional Shortfall	Shortfall	Shortfall
for the Month of:	(mt)	(%)
Jun-98	105	0.49
Jul-98	2,549	11.84
Aug-98	698	3.24
Sep-98	1,397	6.49
Oct-98	2,925	13.59
Nov-98	3,085	14.33
Dec-98	8,079	37.53

* Some of these beneficiaries are receiving supplementary or therapeutic feeding: quantities needed for these feeding programmes are included in requirements.

Resourcing needs are shown against the month in which food is required, and hence, arrival at port of destination should be scheduled four weeks in advance to ensure timely arrival in-country.

8. Somalia

Recent flooding along the Juba and Shabelle rivers led to population displacements and massive crop destruction. As flood waters began to recede in March 1998, people returned home to replant fields when possible. The floods affected approximately one million people. The current rainy season is predicted to be heavier than usual due to the influence of El Nino, and contingency funds have been requested to prepare for the possibility of further flooding. The capacity to deliver food by air, set up by WFP to respond to earlier flooding, will remain in place [OCHA 31/03/98, USAID 28/04/98].

The political situation remains tense in Somalia. A recent example is the abduction of ten relief workers in Mogadishu. The staff were eventually released. Reports indicate an increase in banditry in Mogadishu and inter-clan clashes in Kismayo [FAO May 98, UNICEF Apr. 98].

A livestock embargo by Saudi Arabia, a principle importer of Somali livestock, continues and the annual peak export season has passed. This embargo was imposed based on fears of Rift Valley fever among the livestock. Poor households in northern and central Somalia are beginning to feel the impact of this embargo. Since the embargo took effect, livestock prices in the affected areas have dropped, and poor agro-pastoralist households are particularly affected. They suffered reduced harvests in 1997, and have to draw down their livestock assets in order to purchase food [USAID 28/04/98].

In Southern Somalia, a series of rapid food security assessments have been carried out to provide information on the nutritional status of the populations as the floods recede. One such assessment was carried out in Qorioley (population of 60-65,000) and Merka districts in Lower Shabelle region in mid-March 1998. The food economy in the area has been seriously interrupted by the recent flooding. For example, the banana industry collapsed when flooding destroyed plantations. These plantations previously provided a vital source of income for almost a quarter of a million people. There are reports that many of these seasonal workers have to beg for food and that the number of cases of child malnutrition, particularly oedematous cases, is increasing. Since December, a continuous increase in malnutrition has been reported in Qorioley child health centres [FSAU Mar 98, 03/04/98].

Among the reasons given for the decline in nutritional status were:

· abrupt changes in food consumption in terms of diversity and quantity;
· consumption of low quality cereals;
· reduced caring capacity of parents as both parents are engaged in activities in pursuit of food;
· outbreaks of disease, particularly malaria [FSAU Mar 98].

The situation in Afmadow and Hagar districts in Lower Juba was described as improving but fragile in the previous RNIS report (No 23). More recent reports indicate continued improvement in overall nutritional status and food security. Many of the temporary camps used during the height of the flooding are now empty. The receding flood waters, increased trading and continuation of WFP food deliveries are the main factors leading to this improvement [FSAU 02/04/98].

However, household food availability is still low. Purchasing power is also low and market prices are high. The situation is delicate for many people and food aid is likely to be required for several months to come. There is concern about the well-being of nomads arriving in very poor condition. Most of their herds suffered large losses and nomads are having to sell some of the remaining animals to purchase food [FSAU 02/04/98].

Another food security assessment was carried out in Bulo Hawa and Dolo in the Gedo region, where the situation is getting back to normal. This area is dependent on food supplies from Mogadishu, so when the road was impassable during the floods, food was in short supply. Part of Dolo town on the river bank was also flooded causing displacement and collapse of latrines and wells, causing water and sanitation problems. Many farms were also flooded. However, prices still remain high in the area and in recent rapid assessments around Bulo Hawa there are indications of a serious nutritional situation amongst those in the poorer areas. This appears worst for the recently displaced nomads and poor urban dweller who have most affected by the high prices of food and low livestock prices. Overall, the assessment concluded that nutrition programmes in the area are insufficient and need to be improved [FSAU 19/03/98].

The population of Balad district is around 180,000, 80% of whom are involved in farming. Many families moved to the town from the flooded villages. Currently some farmers are going back to their villages to start planting for the next season. Food prices are still high and poor households have difficulties meeting basic food needs. Diarrhoeal disease is reported to be widespread due to the consumption of contaminated water.

As the seasonal rains begin in Somalia, there is widespread concern that this will again lead to flooding. Already, heavy rainfall has affected many sections of the roads in the Bardera area. The Shabelle river has burst its banks at several points, cutting off many villages on both sides of the river. People have little or no food reserves, and the next harvest, which is likely to be greatly reduced, is not due until July [WFP 10/04/98].

Overall, the affected population in Somalia is at moderate nutritional risk (category IIb in Table 1), although there are likely to be pockets of high risk in areas such as Bulo Hawa.

On-going interventions In light of these assessments, WFP food aid is an important part of maintaining food availability for many families and should be continued. A UN consolidated Appeal for Somalia for the period January-December 1998, sets out the objectives of the humanitarian programme. The short-term objectives are to:

· prevent a recurrence of a widespread humanitarian emergency;
· strengthen rehabilitation and governance efforts;
· create a socio-economic environment conducive to the return of refugees and internally displaced persons.

Activities would include ensuring the provision of health care throughout the country, the provision of drugs and training of personnel, ensuring access to safe drinking water, preventing communicable diseases and rehabilitating schools. This will require additional support from the donor community and is likely to be needed at least until the July harvest. There is currently a 32% shortfall in food aid pledges for this operation. In addition, WFP is facing a cash shortfall for the critical air operation. Nutrition rehabilitation programmes need to be improved and efforts to control malaria are also needed. Consideration should also be given to means of bringing the Saudi livestock embargo to an end. This may involve some form of veterinary initiative easing the way for the Saudi government to review its embargo.

There is an urgent need to strengthen the nutrition programmes in Bulo Hawa and Dolo and for better outreach to detect cases of malnutrition. Supermix should be supplied along with oil in the weekly MCH ration rather than just BP5 biscuits.

Contingency planning needs to be made in the case of new flooding. In particular, ensuring funds and capacity are available to rapidly repair damaged roads, and provide transport and pre-position stocks of food. The airbridge capacity should be maintained.

9. Sudan

Fighting in Sudan between the Government of Sudan and the Sudanese People's Liberation Army (SPLA) began in 1983 and has continued since then. The on-going insecurity and population displacements have destroyed most trade systems within the country and have also been a major impediment to relief efforts. There are currently estimated to be 2.5 million people in Sudan who require humanitarian assistance, and that number is projected to increase by as much as 25% over the course of the year due to increased military activity and drought which led to reduced harvests (details in RNIS 23). These are displaced and war-affected populations throughout both northern and southern Sudan who will require support at different times during the year [DHA Jan-Dec. 98, USAID 05/05/98].

Khartoum There are no new nutritional data on the approximately 176,000 IDPs in four displaced camps around Khartoum. Agencies are aiming to have better access to these people to improve the quality and impact of projects implemented.

Southern Sudan The humanitarian situation in many parts of southern Sudan had deteriorated significantly in the first months of 1998. Household assets are largely depleted which, combined with poor access to food sources such as markets and farming fields, drought and successive population displacements, have meant that food aid needs are increased in this already food insecure region. Furthermore, April to July is the 'hungry season' before the harvest [NPA 30/04/98, OLS May 98, OXFAM 01/05/98, WFP 03/04/98].

“There is a serious deterioration in the nutritional status of the vulnerable population of southern Sudan - supplementary and therapeutic food for the severely malnourished must go hand in hand with enough general food distribution to enable entire families to survive...”
(Hermant, MSF as quoted in IPS 10/06/98)

One of the hardest-hit areas is Bahr el Ghazal, where it is estimated that 595,000 people are in urgent need of humanitarian assistance, 380,000 of whom are in critical need for survival. The northern counties have experienced three years of food insecurity and coping strategies are reportedly exhausted. Crop failure due to poor rainfall and pest infestation led to recommendations for food aid during the 'hungry season' in November 1997. Since that time intensified fighting in the area around Wau has led to widespread displacement of an estimated 270,000 people. Many of the displaced have no access to water, building materials, food other than wild fruits, and seeds. Tools are also in short supply for this planting season. Some people are returning to Wau with high levels of malnutrition being observed among the returnees. Adults as well as children appear severely malnourished [IRIN 22-28/05/98, OLS May 98].

A survey conducted by World Vision in the Panthou and Toch areas of the province found 40.8% wasting with 13.6% severe wasting and/or oedema (see Annex I (9a)) [IRIN 20/05/98].

Critical food shortages were also noted in Upper Nile, where insecurity hampers access to needy populations. Large numbers of people have been displaced. A rapid assessment in Unity State found 55% wasting (MUAC < 12.5cm). Selective feeding programmes are being established. A more recent survey by MSF-Holland in Ler town, Western Upper Nile found 32.5% wasting with 6.5% severe wasting (see Annex I (9b-c)) [CARE 05/05/98, IRIN 20/05/98, OLS May 98, WFP 03/04/98, 24/04/98].

A critical situation is also noted in Equatoria, where a recent survey in Torit found 28% malnutrition (see Annex I (9d)). Insecurity has displaced large numbers of people in the eastern part of the province. Selective feeding programmes are operating in Juba although their long-term effectiveness is likely to be limited by a widespread lack of food. This is due to:

· poor access to fields outside of Juba;
· decreasing productivity of over-farmed lands;
· low purchasing power of households;
· irregular food aid deliveries [OLS May 98].

Access to affected populations in southern Sudan has remained problematic due to restricted flight clearance by the GOS, leading to problems with food deliveries. For example, in Tonj, people have only received about 25% rations and many have been getting nothing. In addition, the onset of rains will make overland transport more difficult in the months to come. In April, the GOS gave clearance for relief flights to resume to all areas of Bahr el Ghazal and by early May had given authorisation to operate additional aircrafts for relief deliveries, bringing the total number to five. This will greatly improve WFP's ability to deliver aid. There is however concern that food drops may be too late, and that people are forced to eat the seeds that were meant for planting. This would lead to a longer term need for food aid. Furthermore, WFP and OLS agencies are aiming to decentralise operations to avoid concentrations of large groups of people. Increased air capacity is likely to help [IRIN 27 Mar-2 Apr 98, NPA 03/04/98, WFP 17/04/98,24/04/98,01/05/98, WV 06/05/98].

Access to approximately 400,000 people in the Nuba mountains remains problematic. This region is in central Kordofan and lies in the transition zone where north and south Sudan meet. There are reports that 20,000 people are facing food shortages after being forced out of their villages by insecurity. There are a further 300,000 people who have moved into 'peace camps' in government-held territory, where assistance is now provided. Permission was granted for an assessment mission to the Nuba mountains, but the mission has been postponed in order to work out the details enabling the mission to work in both rebel and government-held areas [IRIN 1-7/05/98, 06/05/98, 16-18/05/98, OLS 15/05/98].

Production of the July harvest will depend on rainfall in May and June. However, due to reduced planting in April, population displacements and erratic rainfall, prospects for the harvest are unfavourable [FAO 15/05/98].

A further round of peace talks between the GOS and SPLA ended with a decision to hold a referendum on the right to self-determination in southern Sudan. In addition, parties agreed on a 'free and unimpeded' flow of humanitarian aid to affected regions of the country [IRIN 01-07/05/98].

Ethiopian and Eritrean Refugees As of the end of 1997, there were approximately 360,000 Ethiopian and Eritrean refugees in Sudan, 135,000 of whom were assisted. Most recent nutritional surveys (October 1997) in the camps showed levels of wasting varying from 5-15%. Since that time, organised voluntary repatriation for Ethiopian refugees has been completed. Repatriation for the Eritrean refugees is scheduled to resume after the end of the rainy season in September [UNHCR 08/06/98, UNHCR/WFP 29/11/97].

Overall, the population in Southern Sudan is at heightened nutritional risk (category IIa in Table 1). High levels of wasting are continuously reported when surveys are carried out, although population breakdowns are not always available. The IDPs in Khartoum are at moderate nutritional risk, with a tendency towards improvement if agencies are allowed better access. The Eritrean and Ethiopian refugees are not considered to be at heightened risk (category IIc in Table 1).

On-going interventions Pledges are urgently needed for a recently approved expansion of WFP's emergency operation to assist approximately 2.48 million people in southern Sudan from May 1998 - April 1999. Response to the UN Consolidated Appeal has been disappointing with only 20% of funds requested being pledged as of early May. There are many constraints to emergency interventions in the south over which the humanitarian community has little control, such as security and flight clearances. However, in order to have the maximum impact wherever possible, resources for emergency needs should be in place as soon as possible.

10. Uganda

There are estimated to be 618,000 people in need of emergency assistance in Uganda. This total number is comprised of about 430,000 internally displaced people, 164,000 Sudanese refugees in the northwest of the country and 24,000 from Rwanda and DRC in the western and southern areas. Insecurity due to rebel activity remains a problem, especially in the northern districts of Gulu and Kitgum. There are reports of ambushes leading to injuries and death, and fresh population displacements [IRIN 15/04/98, 22-28/05/98, 04/06/98, WFP 03/04/98, 15/05/98, 29/05/98].

Origin	Dec. 96	Mar. 97	Jun. 97	Sep. 97	Dec. 97	Mar. 98	Jun. 98
Sudanese Refugees	214,000	225,000	165,000	175,000	176,000	162,000	164,000
IDPs	200,000	200,000	150,000	270,000	382,000	402,000	430,000
Rwandan Refugees	11,500	14,500	17,000	14,000	14,000	15,000	12,000
Refugees from DRC	15,800	28,800	21,000	14,000	14,000	15,000	12,000
Total	441,300	468,300	353,000	473,000	586,000	594,000	618,000

Insecurity in Northern Uganda is continuing, and is resulting in fresh population displacements. For example, clashes in the Bundibugyo area displaced close to 12,000 people. Food assistance has been dispatched to the area, and some people are said to be returning to their homes. A cholera epidemic broke out in the area with 20,000 cases and over 1,000 deaths reported since the beginning of the year. Efforts to control the outbreak are underway [PROMED 31/05/98, WFP 10/04/98, 24/04/98, 01/05/98].

The harvest in February has somewhat relieved the food supply situation although a combination of drought, floods, market disincentives and rebel activity has severely affected cultivation in many parts of the country. Excessive rains led to a reduced harvest of maize and beans, while they created favourable conditions for roots, tubers and plantains, the country's main staple [FAO May 98, IRIN 14/04/98, USAID 28/04/98].

During March, food rations were provided for the displaced persons in northern Gulu and Kitgum but rations varied in quantity according to camp conditions and access to land. A recent assessment in Kitgum indicated that 90% of the displaced population has access to land for cultivation. Also during March 135,000 out of 163,000 Sudanese refugees received rations. Most are now receiving reduced rations as they are considered to be partially self-sufficient [WFP 10/04/98].

Voluntary repatriation for Congolese refugees has been interrupted several times due to a number of factors including the poor health situation in the area of return, and poor road conditions. The programme had re-started before the end of May, and is expected to continue for several months [IRIN 10/06/98, WFP 17/04/98,08/05/98].

Overall, the Sudanese refugees and the IDPs are at moderate risk of malnutrition (category IIb in Table 1) due to continued insecurity. The Congolese and Rwandan refugees are not currently considered to be at heightened nutritional risk (category IIc in Table 1).

11. Zambia

There are no new data on the approximately 34,000 refugees in Zambia, comprised of 1,100 Congolese refugees, 32,000 Angolan refugees, 700 Rwandan refugees and 200 refugees from Burundi [RNIS 23].