Progress in relief programmes in Makeni area

Significant progress has been made in the implementation of humanitarian programmes in the Rogberi, Lunsar and Makeni areas, the UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs in Freetown reported on Thursday.

However, it said access to the Occra Hills area and beyond Lungi, site of the international airport, continues to be "problematic" due to insecurity.

Makeni and Lunsar are perceived to be "relatively safe" and recent interventions have improved the health and nutritional status of the civilian populations in these areas. However, malnutrition is still evident among vulnerable groups, especially children, OCHA reports. Foods such as cassava and potatoes are readily available but protein-based commodities are scarce and costly.