UN appeals for EU aid for ex-fighters

The UN Special Representative of the Secretary-General in Sierra Leone, Oluyemi Adeniji, has appealed to the European Union (EU) to help the reintegration of former combatants, the UN Mission in Sierra Leone (UNAMSIL) reported. At a meeting on Wednesday with the EU's Special Representative to the Mano River Union countries (Guinea, Liberia and Sierra Leone), Hans Dahlgren, Adeniji said that the most crucial task facing Sierra Leone was the reintegration into society of former fighters. He also noted that funds were needed for the reconstruction and rehabilitation of roads which would create jobs for ex-combatants. Dahlgren pledged the EU's continued political support to UNAMSIL and financial assistance with the disarmament, demobilisation and reintegration programme for former fighters, UNAMSIL reported. Despite the recent political concerns raised by the rebels of Revolutionary United Front which have slowed down disarmament in eastern Kailahun and Kenema districts, Adeniji expressed optimism that the exercise would soon be completed. More than 37,000 ex-combatants in 10 districts have so far disarmed, UNAMSIL said.