INTER-AGENCY ASSESSMENT REPORT

KAMBIA DISTRICT

COMPILED BY OCHA, NCRRR & MoDEP

JULY 2001

1. EXECUTIVE SUMMARY

Overall Summary Following the Revolutionary United Front (RUF) withdrawal from the at the end of May 2001 the Government of regained control of the District with the deployment of the Sierra Leone Army (SLA) and the subsequent deployment of the Sierra Leone Police (SLP) in early June, opening up the District after several year’s of RUF occupation. A Humanitarian Task Force for Kambia was established in mid-May. It was mandated to assess the humanitarian situation in the District, identify critical needs and plan appropriate humanitarian interventions to begin the recovery process. An inter-agency multi-sectoral assessment was conducted from the 14th-15th June in all seven of the chiefdoms in Kambia. This was supported by a further assessment by the newly established Technical Secretariat of the National Recovery Committee, which looked specifically at critical requirements for the restoration of civil authority.

As a result of the RUF occupation and the engagement of the Guinean military, much of the Kambia District has suffered considerable displacement, degeneration and destruction. Whilst the whole District has been affected, principal findings from the assessments reveal clear concentrations of damage where rehabilitation needs are the greatest1.

When examining overall destruction to housing, agriculture, schools and health clinics and coupling this with greatest levels of displacement, Gbinleh Dixon, Magbema and Samu chiefdoms have been the most intensely affected. In these chiefdoms, basic infrastructure has been largely destroyed, whole settlements have been deserted and most economic activity h as ceased and is only now slowly being re-vitalised. Bramaia and Mambolo have sustained lesser levels of disruption, whilst Tonko Limba has remained basically intact. The greatest level of damage to buildings was sustained in the northern parts of Gbinle h Dixon, close to the border with , and in Kambia Town and Rosino, both former strongholds of the RUF. Agricultural activities were most severely disrupted along the Greater Scarcies River in Samu and Mambolo Chiefdoms. Generally, there are very few government services throughout the District and there is little access to healthcare or educational facilities.

Many government buildings of civil authority are in a state of dilapidation or have been partly or completely destroyed. Many staff quarters are in a similar condition. Basic furnishings and equipment are absent. Some Government ministries appear to lack the logistical and financial resources to re -deploy their staff, the majority of whom fled the District.

Overview of priority interventions While there are clear priority areas of intervention, the needs throughout the District are great. The recovery process will be a long one, which will require considerable resources and commitment from all stakeholders.

In the short term, it is vital that interventions are made to support: § health services § watsan provision § emergency shelter support (particularly in the rainy season) § seeds and tools distributions

1 See annexed map – Damage Overview

2 § food assistance for the most vulnerable § rehabilitation of critical transport infrastructure § restoration of civil authority § reintegration of ex-combatants and their dependants

The humanitarian provisions are aimed at the existing population and spontaneously resettling refugees and IDPs. The provision of basic services will help to provide the appropriate environment for the facilitated resettlement of refugees and IDPs, when the chiefdoms are declared safe. These interventions must be followed by longer- term recovery projects focused on the rehabilitation needs of communities and the rejuvenation of the economy, into which reintegrating ex-combatants can be absorbed.

§ Health. Health infrastructure has been affected throughout the District. At least 50% of community health centres outside of Kambia town are dilapidate d through disuse and neglect. Most facilities require some form of rehabilitation and all require re-equipping with drugs, medical equipment and furnishings. Immediate rehabilitation of the less damaged health facilities should be undertaken so that basic health services are made available throughout the District. This should be accompanied by mobilisation of the Ministry of Health employees to return to the District. Longer-term requirements, such as the rebuilding of the hospital in Kambia town, should follow.

§ Watsan. Water and sanitation are problematic in all seven chiefdoms and require immediate attention. In Magbema and Gbinleh Dixon chiefdoms, only 5% of wells asse ssed were operational. Parts of Samu and Mambolo chiefdoms face similar problems. Sanitation is very poor throughout the District with estimation of only 35% of needs being met. A priority area for intervention is , which has a history of cholera outbreaks.

§ Education. The education has been severely disrupted. Most of the schools require rehabilitation to raise them to a minimum functional level and require the replenishment of teaching and learning materials and furniture. An immediate re habilitation programme of the less damaged schools in key centres of population should be prioritised to allow basic education services to resume for the new academic year in September. At the same time teachers and MoYES schools inspectors must be encouraged to return to their location. Support in the provision of their accommodation will be required. A longer-term reconstruction and rehabilitation programme developed for the entire District should follow.

§ Food security. There are indications of malnutrition in all communities assessed, with vulnerably perceived to be the highest in Gbinleh Dixon and Magbema chiefdoms. Supplementary and Therapeutic Feeding Programmes should commence to address malnutrition among the most vulnerable groups. School feeding should commence in the new academic year. Food and cash for Work programmes should commence to support community reconstruction programmes, rejuvenate the economy and stimulate the recovery process.

§ Agriculture. Agriculture and livestock production have been severely disrupted. Immediate assistance in the form of seeds and tools for spontaneous returnees (both refugees and IDPs) and existing farming communities so that they can resume basic economic activity. This should be accompanied by assistance with vegetable, cassava, groundnut, sweet potato, livestock, forestry and fruit production, as well as support to fishing communities. A longer-term

3 reconstruction programme of farming infrastructure in the District (stores, drying floors and markets centre s) should follow.

§ Shelter. In the communities assessed, 28% of houses have been destroyed, with Magbema and Samu chiefdoms showing the highest levels of destruction. Immediate shelter assistance in the worst hit communities is required. In the medium term, there is a need for permanent shelter delivery (zinc-coated corrugated iron roofing, wire nails, roofing nails, cement) and deployment of Ministry of Housing, Lands, Country Planning & Environment staff to provide technical advice, town and village planning, monitoring and supervision.

§ Child protection. Children in need of special protection measures, such as separated children, street children, sexually abused girls and child mothers, have been identified within a number of chiefdoms. Child-focused interventions, such as family tracing and reunification, education and skills development and promotion of child rights, need to be pushed forward.

§ Transport infrastructure. Many of the roads in the District are in a state of disrepair. Critical repairs to transport infrastructure will need to be addressed to support reconstruction and recovery efforts. Such improvements will also help stimulate the economy by allowing the freer flow of goods and materials.

§ Restoration of civil authority. Many civil authority offices and quarters are in a state of dilapidation or are completely or partially destroyed. Many government officers are absent. The same applies to the Paramount Chiefs. Rehabilitation of less damaged GoSL buildings and accommodation is a priority to allow the return of the civil service to the District and for the resumption of normal activities. Flexibility and pragmatism is needed to move the process forward. This will include the restoration of District administration, line ministries, customs posts, courts and prisons. Further action will also be required to ensure the police, who have already deployed, have the basic infrastructure to support their activities. This will include the rehabilitation of police stations and staff quarters.

Synergy Recovery efforts in the District need to fit within a comprehensive strategy. The soon to be established District Recovery Committee will have a pivotal role in further developing such a strategy and monitoring interventions. Efforts should be made as a far as possible to create inter-linkages between critical issues that need addressing. This will include, for example: · The reconstruction of schools and health posts must be complemented by the deployment of teachers and health workers and appropriate levels of funding to resource and meet recurrent costs so that these facilities become operational and are maintained; · There is the potential to incorporate ex-combatants and community members into rehabilitation and reconstruction projects, whether it is in the education, agriculture, health, watsan and transport sectors, or with the restoration of civil authority. These could provide employment generation opportunities, and in doing support the absorption of displaced people into a rejuvenating economy

4 2. TABLE OF CONTENTS

1. EXECUTIVE SUMMARY...... 2 2. TABLE OF CONTENTS...... 5 3. GLOSSARY OF ABBREVIATIONS ...... 6 4. INTRODUCTION...... 7 5. BACKGROUND ...... 9 5.1 GEOGRAPHY...... 9 5.2 ECONOMY...... 9 5.3 SECURITY ...... 9 6. POPULATION ...... 10 7. SECTORAL OVERVIEW & PRIORITIES...... 11 7.1 HEALTH...... 11 7.2 WATER & SANITATION ...... 14 7.3 EDUCATION ...... 16 7.4 FOOD SECURITY...... 19 7.5 AGRICULTURE...... 20 7.6 SHELTER...... 21 7.7 CHILD PROTECTION ...... 23 7.8 TRANSPORT INFRASTRUCTURE ...... 24 7.9 RESTORATION OF CIVIL AUTHORITY...... 25 8. OVERALL STRATEGY...... 29 8.1 CRITICAL HUMANITARIAN INTERVENTIONS...... 29 8.2 FACILITATED RESETTLEMENT & REPATRIATION...... 29 8.3 SYNERGY...... 30 8.4 CHALLENGES AHEAD ...... 30 9. COORDINATION ...... 31 9.1 RECOVERY AND THE RESTORATION OF CIVIL AUTHORITY...... 31 9.2 HUMANITARIAN ASSISTAN CE ...... 31 9.3 SECTORS...... 31 9.4 SAFETY AND SECURITY OF RESETTLEMENT...... 31 9.5 FACILITATED RESETTLEMENT AND REPATRIATION ...... 32 9.6 REINTEGRATION ...... 32 9.7 DONORS AND FUND MANAGERS...... 32 10. MONITORING & FOLLOW-UP ACTIONS...... 33

A comprehensive set of annexes detailing findings from the assessment missions is available2.

2 Contact the Humanitarian Information Centre (HIC) at OCHA: [email protected]

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3. GLOSSARY OF ABBREVIATIONS

CAP Community Action For Progress CHC Community Health Centre CRS Catholic Relief Services FAO Food and Agricultural Organisation IIYL International Islamic Youth League IRC International Rescue Committee KADDRO Kambia District Development and Rehabilitation Organisation MCH Maternal and Child Health MSF–H Medicins Sans Frontieres – Holland MoAFMR Ministry of Agriculture, Forests & Marine Resources MoDEP Ministry of Development & Economic Planning MoHS Ministry of Health & Sanitation MoHLCPE Ministry of Housing, Lands, Country Planning & Environment MoLGRD Ministry of Local Government & Rural Development MoYES Ministry of Youth, Education & Sports MSWGCA Ministry of Social Welfare, Gender and Children’s Affairs NCDDR National Committee for Disarmament, Demobilisation & Reintegration (Executive Secretariat) NCRRR National Commission for Reconstruction, Resettlement & Rehabilitation NFI Non-Food Items NRC Norwegian Refugee Council OCHA Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs RUF Revolutionary United Front SLA Sierra Leone Army SLIS Sierra Leone Information System SLP Sierra Leone Police UNAMSIL United Nations Mission in Sierra Leone UNHCR United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees UNICEF United Nations Children Emergency Fund WFP World Food Programme

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4. INTRODUCTION

Follo wing the 2nd May 2001 meeting in Abuja, there was full consent of all parties on withdrawal of RUF combatants from Kambia District in Sierra Leone and the deployment of the Sierra Leone Army (SLA) to the border area with Guinea3. An Inter-Agency Humanitarian Task Force for Kambia was established to assess the humanitarian condition of the civilian population in Kambia, and to identify and respond to critical humanitarian needs and to allow for the resumption of basic services. This Task Force reports to the Northern Region Inter-Agency Forum and included agencies currently or intending to operate in Kambia.

The Kambia Task Force, constituted on 16th May 2001, comprises lead agencies representing the core humanitarian sectors. On 8th June, a pre-assessment team was deployed to Kambia to assess security, population concentration, and logistics for the full Inter-Agency Assessment. On the 14th –15th June, three multi-sectoral teams, led respectively by NCRRR, OCHA and UNHCR, then undertook a two-day assessment of needs in the seven chiefdoms that make up the Kambia District. The following tables detail the composition of the three teams and the areas assessed.

Table 1: Composition of assessment teams SECTOR LEAD AGENCY ASSESSMENT TEAMS A B C Coordination NCRRR NCRRR OCHA UNHCR Watsan Unicef Unicef Tear fund Action Aid Education Action Aid ActionAid NRC IIYL Agriculture FAO WFP CAP KADDRO Shelter CRS CRS ActionAid CRS Food & Nutrition WFP WFP IIYL CAP Child Protection Caritas Makeni Caritas Makeni Talking Drum IRC

Health facilities were not examined as part of this assessment, as an assessment had already been undertaken. Data from MoHS and other health agencies has been incorporated in the analysis as appropriate.

Locations represented in italics (Table 2) were visited during the pre -assessment only. These settlements had either sustained extensive destruction during recent hostilities, and/ or significant displacement. Information collected from these locations is included in the analysis where appropriate.

The assessment was confined to settlements of over 300 people, representing 18% of the total number of towns in the Kambia District. This was done to minimise the time between assessment and intervention, with the understanding that selected locations are key to providing basic services to outlying areas. More detailed assessments in outlying areas will be carried out in the near future. Selection criteria for locations assessed were: · Ease of access, · Population levels representing the larger villages and towns, · Evidence of spontaneous return, · Basic infrastructure existing, such as schools and health clinics, · Availability of markets, · Evidence of economic activity.

3 For full details see: Final Report of the 2nd Meeting of the Committee of Six of the ECOWAS Mediation and Security Council, The United Nations, the Government of Sierra Leone and RUF on advancing the Peace Process in Sierra Leone. Abuja, 2nd May 2001.

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Table 2: Locations assessed by the teams4

LOCATIONS ASSESSED BY INTER-AGENCY ASSESSMENT TEAMS A B C : Mambolo Chiefdom: Gbinleh Dixon Chiefdom: · Kamasasa · Mayaki · Mafari · Madina · Rokel · Tawuya · Numea Mabanda · Mambolo · Gbonkofol · Mabala · Malambe · Fodia · Royak · Makot Bramaia Chiefdom: Samu Chiefdom: : · Kankubramaia · Kychom · Magbengbe · Gbulun · Kasiri · Sentai · Kukuna · Rosino · Kambia · Konta · Mawdia · Sheakaia · Gbonkomaria · Rokupr : · Barmoi · Gbanka · Tawuya

Following the Inter-Agency Assessment and the presentation of a draft report, the newly formed National Recovery Committee recommended that its Technical Secretariat, chaired by MoDEP, deploy further teams to the district to co ver remaining issues specifically pertaining to the restoration of civil authority. It also gathered further information on transport infrastructure. This was undertaken between 11-13 July. Preparatory meetings were held between OCHA and MoDEP to ensure approaches were complementary. Additional information from areas not covered in the original inter-agency assessment was also sought.

This report presents the core findings from these assessments and priority interventions to be made. Additional information was obtained from SLA, Ministry of Youth, Education and Sports (MoYES), Action Aid, MSF -H and the MoHS. Detailed and consolidated analysis of the information emerging from the assessment and other sources are contained in a separate annex to this report. All relevant agencies and ministries have been consulted as far as possible to crosscheck information and to refine the strategy presented.

4 See annexed map

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5. BACKGROUND

5.1 Geography

Kambia District lies in the northwest of Sierra Leone. It borders Guinea to the north, to the south and to the east (see annexed map). It occupies a total of 3,103 sq km and comprises seven chiefdoms. The main ethnic groups are Susu, Limba and Temne. The District headquarters is Kambia town. According to a Ministry of Health Survey in 1989, the District is predominantly Muslim (93.4%).

5.2 Economy

The main economic activities in the region are small family-based agriculture and fishing. Rice predominates as the staple crop grown in uplands, Boli Lands, Inland Valley Swamps (IVS) and mangrove swamps along the coast. Vegetables and tuber crops are also produced. Livestock has been a significant feature of agricultural production in the area, though this has been severely impacted by the war. Kambia was once the “rice bowl” of Sierra Leone. According to and EC Food Security Vulnerability Assessment in1999, it now has above average vulnerability.

5.3 Security

The District was first attacked by RUF and AFRC forces in 1995. Periodic attacks continued until the District was entirely occupied in 1999. Widespread displacement has occurred, with the civilian population fleeing to seek asylum in Guinea or in safer areas to the South, principally in Kafu Bullom and Lokomasama. The District remained under RUF control until May 2001, when there was a formal agreement for the RUF to withdraw from the District and the Government to regain control. Many of the ex-combatants entered into the DDR process through the demobilisation centre in Port Loko. After a short stay in the DDR centres, some of the ex-combatants have returned to Kambia. The SLA, and later the SLP, have deployed into Kambia and now have a permanent presence throughout the District. UNAMSIL has no forces to the north of Mange, where one company is present. Two UNAMSIL Military Observer teams undertake daily patrols of the District from their base in Port Loko.

The Sierra Leone – Guinea border, an important source of formal and informal cross border trade, was officially reopened by the Presidents of both countries at a ceremony on 3rd June 2001, but has yet to be opened to civilian traffic.

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6. POPULATION

Table 3 provides an overview of past, current and projected population levels in each of the chiefdoms.

Table 3: Population data and estimated IDP/refugee return

Expected Total Expected Expected Expected Estimated Projected Return of Estimated Previous Current IDP IDP IDP Return Refugee Population Refugee Return - Chiefdom Population Pop Return Return Western Return 1 2 June Returnees Refugees, (1985) June 2001 3 Loko- Port Loko Area from 2001 Loko- 5 6 7 Guinea8 Returnees masama4 Masama IDP Camp Camps & IDPs

Bramaia 16,524 19,147 109 - 7 116

Gbinleh Dixon 10,728 12,596 146 120 33 299

Magbema 39,505 51,397 6,120 2,901 128 9,149

Mambolo 26,775 30,295 538 2,366 51 2,955 UNKOWN UNKOWN

Masungbala 19,,326 UNKNOWN 23,982 803 - 86 889 Samu 42,434 56,304 963 23,072 38 24,073 CHIEFDOM BRAKDOWN CHIEFDOM BRAKDOWN Tonko Limba 30,939 38,596 356 29 145 530

TOTALS 186,231 Unknown 232,317 9,035 28,488 208 488 6,800 45,019

Notes 1. This data was sourced from the 1985 National Population Census (Central Statistics Office). 2. The current population level in Kambia is unknown. FAO in their recent Vulnerability Analysis – April 2001 used local estimates to provide estimated population levels in each of the chiefdoms. The Kambia Pre-Assessment also estimated the current population in each of the assessment villages (See Annex document) 3. This data is extrapolated from the 1985 Census Data using an annual growth rate multiplier. 4. These figures have been derived from data from UNHCR Sierra Leone detailing returned refugees coming from Kambia, but currently living with host communities in Lokomasama. 5. The expected figures for IDP returnees from Lokomasama have been derived from WFP vulnerable group feeding lists for March 2001. 6. The number of IDPs expected to return to the Kambia District from the Port Loko IDP camp have been derived from NRC camp resident lists. 7. This information has been taken from the OCHA IDP census of camps (March 2001) and includes both verified and unverified IDPs resident in the Western Area camps. 8. The figure for refugee returnees to Kambia District is an estimate. In August 2000, 70 % (22,400) of the 32,000 refugees in Forecariah were from Kambia District. To date 15,600 of these have returned to Sierra Leone via . All of these are living with host communities in Lokomasama. A small number of those from Kambia who remained in Guinea have been relocated to camps in Dabola. It is unlikely that these refugees will return immediately. There are currently an estimated 6,800 refugees who may return to Kambia from the Forecariah camps, which have recently been closed. A chiefdom breakdown of this figure is not available, however, it is likely that many of these come from the chiefdoms bordering Guinea, principally Gbinleh Dixon and Bramaia. A number are travelling back and forth across the border. It is anticipated that the majority will continue this cross border movement, fully returning after the rains.

10 7. SECTORAL OVERVIEW & PRIORITIES

7.1 HEALTH

7.1.1 Summary findings

Health infrastructure has been affected throughout the District. Kambia District’s only hospital, located in Kambia town, has been completely destroyed and will need to be rebuilt. There are therefore currently no inpatient facilities in the Kambia region and all cases must be referred to Port Loko hospital. Other structures, such as the under- five clinic in Kambia town, remain intact and simply require minor repair work, equipment and staff in order to be fully operational.

Most community health centres outside Kambia town are essentially intact, though at least 50% of these are dilapidated through disuse and neglect. Most facilities require some form of rehabilitation and all require partial, if not full, re-equipping. Drugs, medical equipment and furniture are either unavailable, or minimally available, throughout the District. While there are some Ministry of Health employees present in some of the assessed communities, these tend to be ancillary staff, such as nursing aides, guards, porters and Maternal and Child Health (MCH) aides. There is virtually no trained medical staff remaining in Kambia capable of providing or supporting primary health care services. Most fled to Port Loko or .

The short-term (1-3 months) strategy for the sector is to rehabilitate those health facilities that sustained less damage and so can be rehabilitated rapidly. This will ensure that existing and returning populations have access to basic medical services. Reconstruction of the more seriously damaged and dilapidated health facilities will occur in the medium term, which will focus on provision of more comprehensive health services for the District. Immediate priority will be given to: · health facilities that have sustained minimal damage, and which can be made operational in the short term; · facilities located in larger centres of population, or where high levels of population return has been projected; · areas in which there are no other existing operational health facilities.

7.1.2 Priority interventions

Immediate Action

· Immediate rehabilitation of basic health infrastructure throughout the District. Priority will be given to those Community Health Centres (CHCs) and Maternal and Child Health Posts (MCHPs) that have sustained the least damage, so as to allow for relatively quick restoration of a basic functioning health network. This will include repairs to infrastructure, such as roofs, windows, doors, walls, floors and water and sanitation facilities. The table below provides an outline of work proposed.

11 Table 4: Proposed health facilities for emergency rehabilitation

CHIEFDOM LOCATION FACILITIES TO BE STRUCTURALLY REHABILIATED Bramaia Kukuna 1 CHC Gbolon 1 MCHP Sheakaia 1 MCHP Gbinleh Dixon Tawuya 1 CHC Mafari 1 CHC Magbema Kambia town 1 CHC Rokupr 1 CHC Gbonko Maria 1 CHC Maturaneh 1 CHP Mambolo Mambolo 1 CHC Tombo Wallah 1 CHC Masumgbala Bamoi 1 CHC Kawula 1 CHC Samu Kychom 1 CHC Kassirie 1 CHC Yeliboya 1 CHC Koya 1 MCHP Rosino 1 MCHP Tonko Limba Kamassassa 1 CHC Numea 1 CHC

· Mobilisation of health workers. All rehabilitated facilities will require qualified medical staff. Returns must be facilitated of former Kambia staff and local housing/ staff quarters will be to be rehabilitated in order to support the return of health workers and MoHS staff, including the District Medical Officer (DMO).

· Provision of medical supplies and equipment. Each clinic will need to be fully equipped with essential drugs, medical instruments and basic furnishings.

· Strengthening of Port Loko Hospital in order to provide a basic referral service to the Kambia District until the Kambia hospital is functioning.

Medium-Term Action

§ Rebuilding of Kambia Hospital.

§ Reconstruction and rehabilitation of those health facilities that sustained more serious damage.

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Table 5: Overview of health facilities in Kambia District

CHIEFDOM LOCATION Health facility Health facility PROPOSED (Pre war 5) (Operating EMERGENCY currently) REHABILITATION

Bramaia Kukuna CHC X6 X Gbolon MCHP X Sheakaia MCHP X Konta MCHP

Gbinleh Dixon Tawuya CHC X Mafari CHC X

Magbema Kambia town Hospital Kambia town Under 5 clinic X Kambia town CHC X Kambia town 20-bed clinic X7 Maturaneh MCHP X Rokupr Clinic (AHM) Rokupr CHC X8 X Gbonkomaria C. Hospital Gbonkomaria CHC X9 X

Mambolo Mambolo town CHC X X Mambolo town Mission clinic Tombo Wallah CHC X X Mayakie MCHP

Masumgbala Bamoi CHC X X Kawula CHC X X

Samu Kassirie Mission Clinic ? X Kychom CHC X Mapotolon CHC Yeliboya CHC X Mafufuneh MCHP Koya MCHP X Rosino MCHP X Rokai MCHP

Tonko Limba Kamassasa CHC X X Numea CHC X X Madina Clinic Kamagbew MCHP Kasuria MCHP

7.1.3 Follow-up action

· Opportunities will be explored for linking rehabilitation activities with training and income generation opportunities for youth, other members of civil society, and ex-combatants.

5 Information from MoHS (1997) National Operational Handbook for Primary Health Care. 6 Supported by MoHS & UNICEF, as are ones in Bamoi, Kawula, Kamassasa and Numea. 7 MSF-H plan to establish a 20 bed clinic as a temporary measure until the hospital is rebuilt. 8 Supported by MSF-H 9 Clinic supported by MSF-H

13 · Regional Health Technical Committee (RTC) will be established for the Northern Region to coordinate the planning and targeting of health interventions. It is envisaged that the DMO will · MoHS will identify available qualified medical staff and indicate a timeframe for their deployment. This should include a timeframe for any training requirements. · RTC for Health will monitor progress made in the rehabilitation of prioritised rehabilitation activities. · RTC will provide regular updates to donors and agencies on progress made in the rehabilitation of the health sector, will elaborate on priorities, and identify funding gaps. · RTC will review periodically the health strategy for the District and make changes as necessary. This could include for reprioritising health intervention to match actual rate of returnees to specific localities.

7.2 WATER & SANITATION

7.2.1 Summary findings

Water and sanitation provisions are primary concerns in all seven chiefdoms in Kambia . Basic water and sanitation infrastructure is present in most communities, but many of these facilities are damaged and not in working order.

· Water Supply Assessment findings reveal that most of the wells installed with hand pumps are functioning. However, 30% are in a state of disrepair and not operational. The majority have been neglected during RUF occupation and require urgent maintenance. Open wells have been the most severely affected. Eighty percent are contaminated and not in use, causing acute water problems in most communities. A number of the wells have been contaminated by corpses, making them unfit for future use.

Magbema and Gbinleh Dixon chiefdoms, where destruction has been the most extensive, are the most vulnerable in terms of access to clean water supplies. Only 5% of wells assessed were operational. Parts of Samu and Mambolo chiefdoms similarly have acute problems of safe water supply. In community buildings, such as schools and health centres, over 70% of the water supply facilities have either been destroyed or have fallen into disrepair. Currently most communities are dependent upon alternative natural water supplies such as streams, rivers or swamp areas.

· Sanitation Sanitation is very poor throughout the District with an estimated 35% of community needs being met. On average four to five households are dependent on a single drop-latrine. In those areas that sustained the greatest levels of destruction, as many as ten households are sharing a single latrine. In general, most community structures have no functioning sanitation facilities.

A key priority area is Samu chiefdom, notably Yaliboya Island, where cholera outbreaks have occurred on a regular basis (approximately every two years) in the past.

14 7.2.2 Pre-war watsan facilities

Prior to the RUF occupation of Kambia District, key agencies providing water and sanitation support included UNICEF, Action Aid and MSF -Holland who installed a total of 42 wells with hand pumps in the assessed communities. A MoHS survey in 1989 revealed that 6% of households in the District had access to improved wells, 52% had access to traditional wells and 42% depended on rivers/streams. 8% of the population had water within their compound, 48% had access to water in their community and 44% had to travel outside of their community.

7.2.3 Priority interventions

Immediate

· Cleaning, chlorination and provision of training for the maintenance of wells

· Repair of about 142 wells with pumps that require minor maintenance and rehabilitation of 141 open/traditional wells without pumps (see table below)

Table 6: Priority rehabilitation of wells in Kambia District

CHIEFDOM WELLS WITH PUMPS WELLS WITHOUT TOTAL PUMPS Bramaia 27 5 32 Gbinleh Dixon 14 14 28 Magbema 25 19 44 Mambolo 10 25 35 Masumgbala 19 16 35 Samu 15 32 47 Tonko Limba 32 30 62 TOTAL 142 141 283

· Construction of water and sa nitation facilities in schools and health centres (see also section 7.1 and 7.3)

· Community programmes for building latrines throughout the District and for family latrines in less densely populated areas

· Basic hygiene education in all communities

· Training of community-based Blue Flag Volunteers on the correct management, use and maintenance of water and sanitation facilities and control of diarrhoeal disease

· Supervision and monitoring by the Water & Sanitation Department (WSD) of the Ministry of Energy & Power

7.2.4 Follow-up action

· Opportunities explored for linking rehabilitation activities with training and income generation opportunities for ex-combatants and other community members · SALWACO, WSD and MoHS to articulate the availability and timeframe for deployment of watsan staff. · Regional Technical Committee for watsan to be established and to monitor progress made in the rehabilitation of prioritised rehabilitation activities.

15 · RTC provide a regular update to donors and agencies as to progress made in the rehabilitation of the watsan sector and identify priority funding gaps and capacity shortfalls. · RTC to review periodically the watsan strategy for the District and make changes as necessary. This could include reprioritising interventions to match actual numbers of returnees to specific localities.

7.3 EDUCATION

7.3 .1 Summary findings

The education sector has been seriously disrupted in the District. In Kambia town, the four primary and three secondary school buildings have been burnt down, and Rosino, where one school was razed to the ground. Most of the school buildings in other areas have cracked walls, and destroyed roofs, windows and doors. The majority of the schools lack sufficient furniture and have collapsed or dysfunctional sanitation facilities. Nearly all the schools assessed lack water wells or water pipes. Most school facilities in the District require rehabilitation to raise them to a minimum functional level.

Many of the schools assessed do not have sufficient teaching and learning materials. Recreation materials are also virtually non-existent. Boys form the majority of pupils currently enrolled in schools. There is also a general problem of overcrowding in the classrooms, mainly as a result of a lack of teachers. Many of the qualified teachers have fled the District and therefore 60%-70% of the teachers currently present are unqualified. Male teachers dominate in nearly all the schools visited. There is no teacher supervision in the District since the supervisors remain outside the District.

One of the major problems affecting the return of teachers and school inspectors is the lack of available accommodation. The Inspectorate’s Lodge in Kambia town needs major repairs, including the replacement of the roof and ceiling, provision of doors and windows, repairs to walls and floors and repainting. Similar problems exist for teachers.

The school year recommences in September, and facilitated resettlement and repatriation could occur at the end of the rains (see Section 8). The short-term (1-3 months) strategy for the education sector is to rehabilitate the least damaged schools in order to provide basic services in time for the start of the academic year. These could act as cluster schools until other / all schools become operational in the medium term. Priorities have been given to: · Schools located in larger population centres. · Areas in which there are projected higher levels of return. · Schools that have sustained the least damage, and which can be made operational prior to the start of the academic calendar. · Areas in which there are no schools in operation.

7.3.2 Priority Interventions

Immediate · Emergency rehabilitation of 35 key primary schools and 7 secondary school, which have only sustained partial damage and require only basic rehabilitation of structures (such as repairs to roofs, windows, doors and water and sanitation facilities). The aim should be to complete emergency

16 rehabilitation by September 2001 in time for the start of the new academic year. See table below for listing.

· Mobilisation of qualified teaching staff to return to schools made operational by September 2001 and provision of training where necessary

· Rehabilitation of staff quarters or temporary provision of rented accommodation for teaching / MoYES staff. In some areas this may include rehabilitation of local housing to ensure the availability of rented accommodation for teaching staff.

· Provision of furnishings, teaching, learning and recreation materials for all schools being rehabilitated

· Provision / rehabiliation of office space and support equipment for the District Education Office (Inspectorate) in Kambia.

· Community awareness programmes to highlight the importance and value of education for girls.

· Introduction of school feeding in functioning primary schools.

These immediate interventions will lead to the restoration of 24 % of the total number of primary schools and 64 % of the secondary schools within the District.

Medium Term

· Given the paucity of disaggregated data for certain population groups, it has not been possible to gauge the potential levels of refugee/IDP return to Kambia and hence the priority setting for the rehabilitation of education services in certain localities. NCRRR Field Monitors, funded by UNHCR, will need to closely monitor the levels of spontaneous return into the District, so that priorities can be reviewed regularly.

· Rehabilitation of the more seriously damaged schools will commence in the medium term. This does not preclude the possibility of providing interim support to schools to allow as wide coverage in the District as possible and at the earliest possible juncture. This will be particularly important in the more highly populated areas, such as Kychom, where the only existing primary school was destroyed.

· Based on the return rate of teachers, there may be a further requirement for recruitment of trained and qualified teachers. Unqualified volunteer teachers could be encouraged to enrol at Teacher Training Colleges.

17

Table 7: Proposed primary schools to undergo emergency rehabilitation

CHIEFDOM LOCATION PRIMARY SCHOOLS SECONDARY SCHOOLS TO BE REHABILITATED TO BE REHABILITATED Bramaia Kankubramaia 1 Sheakia 1 Gbolon 1 Kukuna 2 1 Konta 1

Gbinleh Dixon Tawuya 1 Daresalam 1 Mafaray 1 Fodia 1

Magbema Kambia Town 2 1 Sentai 1 Rokupr 1 Kambaa 1 Kambaa 1

Mambolo Macoth 1 Mayakie 1 Malabay 1 Mambolo 1 1

Msumgbala Bamoi 1 Kawula 1 Tawyianunu 1

Samu Mage Samu 1 Kassirie 1 1 Mopotolon 1 Kampdee 1 Lusenia 1 Moribaya 1 Yeliboya 1 Rosinor 1 Kychom 1

Tonko Limba Kamasasa 1 1 Kamabala 1 Madina 2 Numea 1 TOTAL 35 7

18 Table 8: Overview of primary schools in Kambia District

CHIEFDOM PRIMARY PRIMARY PROPOSED10 (1999) (Operating REHABILITATION currently) (by Sept. 2001) Bramaia 11 4 6 Gbinleh Dixon 10 0 4 Magbema 27 7 5 Mambolo 22 4 4 Masumgbala 13 1 3 Samu 26 0 8 Tonko Limba 38 8 5 TOTAL 147 24 34

Table 9: Overview of secondary schools in Kambia District

CHIEFDOM SECONDARY SECONDARY PROPOSED 11 (1999) (Operating REHABILITATION currently) (by Sept. 2001) Bramaia 1 0 1 Gbinleh Dixon 0 0 0 Magbema 5 0 2 Mambolo 2 0 1 Masungbala 0 0 0 Samu 2 0 2 Tonko Limba 2 2 1 TOTAL 11 2 7

7.3.3 Follow-up activities

· Explore opportunities for linking rehabilitation activities with training and income generation opportunities for members of the community, including youth and ex-combatants. · MoYES to determine the availability of teachers, and indicate a timeframe for their deployment. This should include identification of qualified teachers amongst the returning refugees and IDPs and further provisions of teacher training. · Regional Technical Committee for Education to monitor progress made in rehabilitation activities. · The Regional Technical Committee provide a regular update to donors and agencies on progress made, and identify priority funding gaps and capacity shortfalls. · NCRRR field monitors to provide regular updates of the number of returnees and resettling IDPs emerging in specific localities within the District. · Regional Technical Committee to review periodically the education strategy for the District and make changes as necessary.

7.4 FOOD SECURITY

7.4.1 Summary findings

The food security situation varies throughout the District and has been affected by reduced productivity of the agricultural sector in all chiefdoms. There are indications of malnutrition in all communities assessed. Vulnerability si perceived to be

10 Some of the proposed schools to be rehabilitated may be included within those that are currently functioning 11 Idem

19 potentially greatest in Gbinleh Dixon and Magbema chiefdoms, where assessment findings indicate that levels of destruction and displacement have been highest.

It is considered that disruption to markets and all forms of economic activity, coupled with the inability to access farming land, have left many areas food insecure.

7.4.2 Priority Interventions

· Initiate Supplementary and Therapeutic Feeding Programmes to combat malnutrition. Prioritise areas where agricultural productivity is low.

· Immediate start-up of school feeding programmes (see also Section 7.3)

· Based on a more in-depth food economy analysis, provide cash or food for work programmes for rehabilitation and reconstruction in the health, education, watsan, agriculture, shelter and transport sectors. Further opportunities could also be created for rehabilitation activities associated with the restoration of civil authority.

7.4.3 Follow-up action

· Detailed food security and nutrition assessments and monitoring are required within the District.

· Coordination and monitoring of employment-based safety nets and food for work schemes in the different sectors, which link with basic food security, reintegration and the rejuvenation of the local economy.

7.5 AGRICULTURE

7.5.1 Summary findings

Agricultural and livestock production was disrupted throughout the period of RUF occupation in Kambia District. The destruction of stores, drying floors and machinery, the unavailability of seeds, the inability to cultivate the land because of insecurity and massive displacement have all led to a considerable decline in agricultural activity and food security. Agricultural support services have been virtually non-existent in the past few years with no access to extension services or credit facilities. Both day and weekend markets have also been heavily disrupted with market centres totally vandalised or burnt down.

Despite the disruption, farming activities are evident principally along the Greater Scarcies River in Mambolo chiefdom and in Tonko Limba chiefdom. Some NGO support in the form of seed rice distribution has also recommenced in some areas in Samu and Mambolo chiefdoms.

7.5.2 Priority interventions

Immediate

§ Provide immediate assistance in the form of seeds and tools to spontaneous returnees (both refugees and IDPs) and existing farming communities. This will include seeds and planting materials for rice, cassava, groundnut, sweet potato and vegetables.

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§ Rehabilitation of nurseries to enhance oil palm, cashew, mangos, citrus and guava production.

§ Provide assistance in restocking of livestock.

§ Reconstruct destroyed stores, drying floors and markets centres.

· Provision of support to fishing communities.

· Restoration of government agricultural extension services

· Rehabilitation of MOAFMR offices

The Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Marine Resources (MoAFMR) has developed an indicative set of requirements for the agricultural sector for each of the chiefdoms. This includes a detailed summary of the Ministry’s proposed staff deployment and resource requirements in supporting them for a one-year period12.

Medium Term

· Provision of seeds and tools to resettling IDPs and refugees

· Decision to be taken as to the future use of the rice research station.

· Rehabilitate the more seriously damaged agricultural facilities in the District.

· Rehabilitate feeder roads, which will have a positive benefit on agricultural production and provide better access to markets (see section 7.8)

7.6 SHELTER

7.6.1 Summary findings

Assessment findings reveal that only an estimated 55% of the pre -war population in Kambia remains in the District. In the communities assessed, 28% of the houses have been destroyed. The highest levels of destruction are in Magbema and Samu chiefdoms (42% and 39% respectively) with as much as 78% destruction in Kambia town. Mambolo and Tonko Limba chiefdoms have the least destruction (3.5% and 7% respectively).

According to the assessment findings, only about 6% of the destroyed houses are being reconstructed, due mainly to the fact that people have just begun to return to their home communities and because of the rainy season. This makes it difficult to rebuild using mud brick, the predominant house-construction material used in the District. There is a significant absence of imported building materials in the communities (plastic sheeting, zinc-coated corrugated iron roofing, wire nails and roofing nails) and an absence of working tools for community artisans (carpenters and masons) to start housing reco nstruction.

Access to shelter will be particularly important to support the return of the civil service to the District. Once the District has been declared safe, resettlement and repatriation

12 This is available from MoAFMR

21 will commence. This will include the provision of plastic sheeting as temporary shelter support as stipulated in the Resettlement Strategy. Assistance should be targeted, where feasible, at permanent rather than temporary shelter to reduce costs. This could involve the provision of corrugated iron rather than plastic sheeting. The possibility of using of locally produced materials should be explored, which could also help stimulate the economy.

Table 10: Summary of shelter destruction in assessment areas

CHIEFDOM PARTIALLY DAMAGED HEAVILY DA MAGED DESTROYED (basic rehabilitation) (substantial rehab inc. (Complete new roof) reconstruction) Bramaia 0 280 128 Gbinleh Dixon 0 69 282 Magbema 151 48 355 Mambola 0 0 0 Masumgbala 0 90 105 Tonko Limba 0 184 58 Samu 0 48 355

7.6.2 Priority interventions

Immediate

· Provision of support for the reconstruction of houses in the worst hit communities.

· Deployment of MoHLCPE staff to the District to provide technical advice in construction technology, town and village planning, coordination, supervision and monitoring

· Rehabilitation of accommodation for civil authority (see Section 7.8).

Medium Term

· Expand shelter programmes to support resettling IDPs, returning refugees and existing population.

· Rehabilitation of community centres.

7.6.3 Follow-up action

· Explore opportunities for linking rehabilitation activities with training and income generation opportunities for community members, including youth and ex- combatants.

· MoHLCPE to develop urban and village plans for supporting the reconstruction of the worst hit communities and ton provide technical advice to implementing agencies

· Regional Technical Committee for shelter to be established and to provide a regular update to donors and agencies as to progress made in the rehabilitation of the shelter sector and identify priority funding gaps and capacity shortfalls.

22 · NCRRR field monitors to provide regular updates of the number of returnees and resettling IDPs emerging in specific localities within the District.

· RTC to review periodically the shelter strategy for the District and make changes as necessary.

7.7 CHILD PROTECTION

7.7.1 Summary findings

Children in need of special protection measures, such as separated children, street children, sexually abused girls and child mothers, have been identified within a number of chiefdoms within the Kambia District. Displacement and exposure to traumatic events have affected children in all chiefdoms. Lack of access to schools, medical facilities and psychosocial development opportunities has also affected these main categories of children.

A significant number of separated children from Kambia District are currently cared for in the Lungi and Port Loko areas. Due to the insecurity of the past two years, it has not been possible to reunify them with their families. With improved security, their reunification and support for reintegration are a priority.

The presence of child protection agencies and child-focused interventions in the Kambia District was minimal prior to RUF occupation due to priorities in other parts of the country.

7.7.2 Priority interventions

Child protection can be covered by a range of interventions such as health, nutrition, education or shelter projects – all of which safeguard or realise the basic rights of children. However, there is generally a lack of child focused programmes providing for psychosocial, protection and reintegration needs of separated children, child mothers and other groups affected by the war. Special programmes are needed to target these groups of children, but other vulnerable children, not associated with specific target groups, must not be overlooked. Displacement in Kambia has been widespread and many young children and adolescents, who remained within the Kambia District under RUF control, have suffered psychologicaly, physically and developmentally. It is therefore important to ensure that appropriate strategies of intervention are developed so that all children’s needs are met regardless of their status. Any proposed intervention should be co-ordinated with MoSWGCA.

Priority interventions include:

· Extension of family tracing and reunification (FTR) activities across the District.

· Community sensitisation programmes to support the community reintegration of children from the fighting forces.

· Provision of basic recreational facilities for children and youth within community centres.

· Establish skills/vocational training programmes for youths.

23 · Re-deploy MoSWGCA Social Development Officers to the chiefdoms in Kambia District.

· Carry out further assessments of the situation of street children in Kambia Town. Provide FTR services for the promotion of family reunification. Ensure reintegration into other services, such as education, recreation and access to health care.

· Organise a sensitisation workshop on child rights for community members.

· Initiate a project to support special needs of child mothers, including integration into education and/or skills development programmes.

· Provide assistance to support disabled children, including amputees, war- wounded and polio victims, and their reintegration into education / skills development programmes.

7.7.3 Follow-up actions

· Further detailed assessment of the number of disabled children, street children and child mothers in areas not covered by the assessments

· Regional Technical Committee for child protection to be established and to develop a detailed strategy for social welfare and child protection interventions for the District. This will include short and medium term interventions

· Ensuring the availability of schools and health facilities for all children will provide opportunities for successful reintegration of child ex-combatants and other children at risk.

7.8 TRANSPORT INFRASTRUCTURE

7.8.1 Summary findings

Most of the roads in the Kambia District are laterite. Many are in a state of disrepair and require maintenance. There are a number of bridges made of palm trees that will need to be rebuilt. Many culverts need reconstruction and maintenance.

Reconstruction efforts, particularly in outlying areas, will be impeded by the state of transport infrastructure. This will be particularly acute during the rainy season.

An effective road network allowing easy access to all of the Kambia District is a primary element of the recovery process and is essential for the regeneration of economic activity. Reconstruction activities will also create employment opportunities for ex-combatants and non-combatants.

7.8.2 Priority interventions

Surface repairs

· Emergency improvements to the Port Loko – Pamelap road

24 Table 11: Road surface repairs in Kambia District

CHIEFDOM ROAD SECTION INTERVENTION Bramaia Kukuna – Kamassasa Grading Magbema Kambia – Kamba Road surface repairs Mambola Rokel – Kalainkay Upgrading (impassable swamp) Mambola Rokel - Katima Upgrading (impassable swamp) Masumgbala N/A N/A Tonko Limba Kamabala – Madina Junction Repairs to road surface Samu chiefdom N/A N/A

Bridge repairs

Table 12: Bridge repairs in Kambia District

CHIEFDOM ROAD SECTION INTERVENTION Bramaia Kukuna - Kamassasa Repairs to 2 small bridges Gbinleh Dixon Kambia Town to Kambaa Full prepare of trenches on either side of the bridge Lokoya - Magbenge Repair of palm log bridge Magbema Kambia - Barmoi Repair damaged concrete bridge Kambia - Kambaa Repair log bridge Kambia - Rokupr Repair damaged bridge at Kamaranka Mambolo Matetitie - Kalinkay Repair wooden bridge Makot - Royak Repair palm log bridge Rokel - Kalainkay Construction of new bridge Rokel - Katima Construction of new bridge Mambolo - Rowallan Repair damaged bridge Masumgbala Barmoi Bana - Kawula Repair palm log bridge Samu N/A N/A Tonko Limba N/A N/A

7.8.3 Follow-on action

· SLRA to undertake detailed assessments and develop a strategy for emergency and medium term transport infrastructure interventions in the Kambia District. This will involve re-assessing the identified problems as well as undertaking more detailed assessments in Samu and Tonko Limba chiefdoms. Attention should also be given to marine and riverine transport infrastructure.

· Opportunities should be explored for linking rehabilitation activities with training and income generation opportunities for ex-combatants and non-combatants.

7.9 RESTORATION OF CIVIL AUTHORITY

7.9.1 Summary findings

Sierra Leone Police (SLP) rapidly deployed 120 officers into Kambia District directly after the withdrawal of the RUF and the deployment of the Sierra Leone Army (SLA). SLP has taken a highly flexible approach in its return to the district and has made use of what offices and accommodation it can muster in order to extend its presence.

The police stations in Kambia and Rokupr towns have been destroyed. SLP are currently making use of the SALPOST offices in both locations. In Kambia town, the SLP intend to remain in the post office until the police station is rebuilt, which should be treated as a priority. The police quarters have been made habitable by the SLP, but require further rehabilitation.

25

In Mambolo, the SLP is temporarily resident in the premises of the Sierra Leone Produce Marketing Board (SLPMB). The Paramount Chief will make available a former store on the quayside for a police station. This building, which is largely undamaged, requires some renovation. Residential accommodation for police officers needs to be provided.

In Madina, a new police post needs to be constructed.

The SLP has recently deployed to Kassirie, repairs need to be made to the police station and quarters.

Prison services: The prison in Kambia town has been destroyed and will need to be rebuilt. The prison’s staff quarters are in a better state, but require roofing, doors, windows and watsan facilities.

District Administration: a number of the District Administration buildings in Kambia town have been destroyed. Others require basic repairs. The District Council and District Office have minor damages and should be prioritised to allow the start of basic administrative functions.

Magistrates court in Kambia town has been destroyed. Alternatives will need to be assessed prior to its reconstruction.

Line Ministries: There are a number of options for the re-deployment of line ministry staff into the District. In Kambia town, an agreement has been forged with the SLA that GoSL institutions could take over the administrative block and one office block, along with three apartments in the boys’ quarters for use as office space in the IDA Complex. These need to be rehabilitated, requiring roofing, doors and windows, floor tiles and watsan facilities.

In Rokupr, there are a number of buildings within the Rice Research Station complex that have not been occupied by the SLA. The main office building needs basic repairs, and along with other less damaged buildings, could be used in the short-term to house various ministries. Seeking alternative accommodation for the SLA would free up more space.

GoSL Commissions: The National Election Commission (NEC) requires major repairs.

Customs posts: the customs post at the Pamlap border has been destroyed and needs rebuilding. In Gbinleh Dixon, the ‘new’ customs post requires reconstruction (roofing, windows and doors).

Paramount chiefs have to date not returned to their chiefdoms, many of the section chiefs however are reported to be present. Temporary, alternative facilities should be used prior to the reconstruction of the Chiefs’ residence, court barries, lock-ups, administrative offices and personnel quarters.

26 Table 13: Status of paramount chief houses, court barries, admin offices and lock-ups

CHIEFDOM CHIEF’S HOUSE COURT BARRIE ADMIN OFFICE & LOCK UPS Bramaia Destroyed 2 Destroyed 2 Destroyed Gbinleh Dixon N/A 1 Destroyed 2 Destroyed 2 Minor Repairs 1 N/A Magbema Destroyed 1 Destroyed 1 Destroyed 2 Substantial repairs 2 Substantial repairs Mambolo Substantial repairs 1 Substantial repairs 2 Substantial repairs 1 Major repairs Masungbala Destroyed 1 Destroyed 1 Destroyed 1 Substantial repairs 1 Substantial repairs 1 Major repairs 1 Major repairs Samu N/A 1 Destroyed 1 Destroyed 3 Substantial repairs 1 Substantial repairs 1 Major repairs Tonko Limba N/A 1 Destroyed 1 Major repairs

Civil servant accommodation: one of the reported obstacles to the deployment of civil servants to Kambia District is the availability of accommodation. As has been demonstrated by the SLP, flexibility and pragmatism is required. Rented accommodation should be explored for those civil servants who are entitled to accommodation, but whose associated quarters have been destroyed or require significant repairs. A strategy detailing short-term measures to allow for the accommodation of staff, including rapid reconstruction and temporary rental arrangements, should be articulated and budgeted. This should include details of longer-term reconstruction plans for those quarters requiring more substantial reconstruction.

7.9.2 Priority interventions

Immediate

· Reconstruction of customs posts.

· Rebuilding the police stations in Kambia and Rokupr, and the police post in Madina, including repairs to quarters

· Reconstruction of the police station and quarters in Kasserie

· Repairs to newly acquired police station site in Mambolo and the provision of accommodation for police officers

· Reconstruction of the District Office and District Council buildings to allow basic elements of civil administration to be restored

· Identification and provision of temporary accommodation for entitled civil servants, emergency rehabilitation of less damaged quarters

· Repair of partially damaged buildings of the Rokupr Rice Research Station.

· Repair of damaged buildings in the IDA Complex (Kambia Town)

· Consultation sessions with communities in each chiefdom to support the restoration of Paramount chiefs

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· Assessment and reconstruction of the NEC District Office

Medium term

· Reconstruction of paramount chief houses, court barries, administrative office and lock-ups

· Reconstruction of those government buildings that incurred substantial damages, including, for example, the prison in Kambia town.

· Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC) to undertake education and prevention programmes aimed at communities, government agencies and parastatals

7.9.3 Follow-on action

· MoLGRD to clearly articulate a strategy for the redeployment of District officials, which includes details of temporary offices and accommodation to be used and priority reconstruction activities. Each line ministry to articulate a similar strategy for the redeployment of their staff.

· Opportunities explored for linking rehabilitation activities with training and income generation opportunities for ex-combatants and other community members

28 8. OVERALL STRATEGY

It is essential that humanitarian assistance be provided within the first few weeks of an area becoming accessible. This is in the form of critical health and watsan provisions, emergency shelter support, seeds and tools distributions and food assistance for existing and spontaneously resettling IDPs and refugees. Rapid, quick impact interventions must then be followed by rehabilitation and reconstruction activities in all core sectors to allow basic services to be re -started. Such interventions will provide a more conducive environment to support resettlement and reintegration.

It is vital that all humanitarian activities form part of a larger strategic plan that supports the re-establishment of civil authority, thereby catalysing wider recovery. While the provision of targeted reintegration opportunities is critical, efforts must be made to promote their reintegration into communities. Establishing viable options for people to re-establish their livelihoods and be absorbed into a rejuvenating economy is of paramount importance.

8.1 Critical humanitarian interventions

· Critical interventions for the existing population and spontaneous resettling IDPs and refugees, starting with those areas most seriously impacted by the war. This will include critical reconstruction & rehabilitation activities in health, watsan, education, shelter and agriculture. At the same time, food insecurity and child protection must be rapidly addressed. · Critical interventions are necessary to reconstruct strategic transport infrastructure such as roads and bridges vital for accessing remote areas, allowing the movement of reconstruction materials and rejuvenating the economy. · Interventions will need to be expanded incrementally into outlying areas to ensure complete coverage of the District. · It will be necessary to monitor population movements to ensure the appropriate targeting of assistance. · Progress made needs to be re gularly monitored to ensure that critical gaps and needs can be identified and highlighted. · Such interventions will provide a more conducive environment for facilitated resettlement

8.2 Facilitated resettlement & repatriation

When the chiefdoms in Kambia District have been declared safe by the District Resettlement Assessment Committee, facilitated repatriation will follow two months later. The Regional Resettlement Planning Committee may soon need to start planning for resettlement, which it is envisaged could start at the end of the rains.

The resettlement strategy is in the process of being revised to reflect lessons learned from the first phase of resettlement. Support to those resettling will include: · Transportation · 2 month food package · Non-Food Items (including plastic sheeting)

Livelihood start-up assistance, such as seeds and tools, will be provided where possible in communities of resettlement. Community-based reconstruction and

29 rehabilitation programmes should be developed to continue the restoration of basic services and the rejuvenation of the local economy.

8.3 Synergy

Recovery efforts in the District need to fit within a comprehensive strategy. The soon to be established District Recovery Committee will have a pivotal role in further developing and monitoring such a strategy. Efforts should be made as a far as possible to create inter-linkages between critical issues that need addressing. This will include, for example:

· The reconstruction of schools and health posts must be complemented by the deployment of teachers and health workers and appropriate levels of funding to resource and meet recurrent costs so that these facilities become operational and are maintained

· There is enormous potential to incorporate ex-combatants and non- combatants into reconstruction projects, such as those linked with schools, health posts, courts, prisons, customs posts, police posts, government offices or roads.

8.4 Challenges ahead

Ex-combatants are entering into short-term training programmes after demobilisation to equip them with a range of skills in preparation for returning to civilian life. One of the critical challenges that Sierra Leone faces now is to ensure that this newly skilled labour force is absorbed into the economy and in doing so forms a core part of efforts to reconstruct the country.

One of the problems being faced, however, is the limited absorptive capacity of the economy. The programmes of NCRRR, NCDDR and other donors, such as DFID’s Community Reintegration Programme and the EC Rehabilitation and Resettlement Support Programme, will help to generate some of the much needed economic opportunities for these groups. However, there is a need for expanded programmes in the next six months for specific sectors that have add-on multiplier effects to absorb this new labour force, as well as unemployed youth. Such programmes need to fit within the overall framework for the reconstruction of the District and country and the rejuvenation of the economy. Failure to address this will lead to a rising number of disaffected, unemployed former fighters and youth that will pose a significant threat to the future security and stability of the country.

There are a number of potential core sectors in Kambia that offer the potential for creating job opportunities for this newly skilled workforce and, in doing so, support the reconstruction of the District. These include agriculture, fishing, shelter and roads. Other opportunities lie in community based schemes, which will utilise the skills of existing and newly trained artisans such as carpenters and blacksmiths who can support community-building programmes. In particular ex-combatants can be used to rehabilitate the road networks, which are critical for the economic rejuvenation of the District.

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9. COORDINATION

Close coordination between all interested parties operating in Kambia District will be crucial to allow critical humanitarian interventions, the restoration of civil authority, reintegration and recovery in general to be both effective and efficient. A number of coordination mechanisms exist or are in the process of being established to support such efforts.

9.1 Recovery and the restoration of civil authority

The National, Provincial, District and Chiefdom Recovery Committees are in the process of being established to oversee the recovery process, plan for the restoration of state authority and ensure that appropriate linkages with humanitarian and reintegration activities interventions are made at all levels.

9.2 Humanitarian assistance

Overall coordination of humanitarian assistance will be initially provided through the Humanitarian Task Force for Kambia District, chaired by NCRRR with support from OCHA. This will include monitoring the spontaneous return of IDPs and refugees, with the NCRRR Field Monitors acting as a focal point for information.

It is envisaged that the Task Force will operate for a two to three month period, after which standard coordination mechanisms will take over, namely the inter-agency forum for the Northern Region.

Monitoring of the humanitarian interventions and the recovery process in general will be carried out by the Sierra Leone Information System (SLIS)13.

9.3 Sectors

Coordination within each sector will occur through Regional Technical Committees. Although a number of Regional Technical Committees are operational, such as for agriculture, others still need to be established.

9.4 Safety and security of resettlement

The mechanism for determining whether a particular chiefdom in Kambia District is suitably safe to allow for the facilitated resettlement of IDPs and repatriation of refugees is the Kambia District Resettlement Assessment Committee. This comprises representation from NCRRR, the District Officer, SLP, NCDDR, Council of Paramount Chiefs, UNAMSIL, UNHCR, OCHA and a representative of the displaced population. The Committee makes recommendations to the National Resettlement Assessment Committee as to whether a chiefdom should be declared safe. If ratified, then facilitated resettlement can commence. The District-level committee also has the responsibility of monitoring the security of the Chiefdom when resettlement occurs14.

13 The Sierra Leone Information System is a joint OCHA/UNHCR project partly funded by ECHO designed to improve data coordination and enhance provision of information through a variety of media on Sierra Leone. 14 For the full Terms of References of both committees see NCRRR’s Resettlement Strategy. December 2000.

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9.5 Facilitated resettlement and repatriation

Resettlement will be coordinated through the Regional Resettlement Planning Committees, chaired by NCRRR and made up of representatives of NCDDR, OCHA, UNHCR, the Regional Technical Committees and of the displaced population. Monitoring of resettlement will be supported by the SLIS.

9.6 Reintegration

Reintegration needs to be prioritised on all agendas and embrace all sectors. A reintegration coordination committee operates at the regional level.

9.7 Donors and fund managers

Following the initial roundtable meeting on Kambia it is proposed that follow-up monitoring meetings be called, as and when required, so that all stakeholders, including donors and fund managers, can be appropriately informed of progress made and the changing priorities as recovery take place.

32 10. MONITORING & FOLLOW-UP ACTIONS

· Expansion of assessments into outlying areas · More detailed sectoral specific assessments where appropriate · Lessons learned exercise for further assessments in Kambia and for other newly accessible areas · Monitoring of progress made in the implementation of identified projects · Monitoring of population movements · Lobbying for agencies to support specific sectors or areas · Liaison with UNAMSIL, SLA and SLP on security issues · Activation of the District Resettlement Assessment Committee for monitoring and eventual declaration of safety · Develop and implement plans for lo nger-term rehabilitation interventions in each of the chiefdoms within Kambia.

33