UNHCR, WFP repatriate 154 refugees

UNHCR in collaboration with WFP repatrated 154 refugees from Bukavu, south Kivu province to Rwanda. “Their numbers are decreasing asz a result of insecurity and long distances to cover,” WFP said in its weekly update. WFP distributed 101 tons of food to 13,109 refugees in Kilueka and Kimaza camps in Bas Congo province. Some 5,382 vulnerable persons, including malnourished children, pregnant and lactating women rceived 15 tons of supplementary food rations. The two agencies also plan to distribute 159 tons of food to 11,344 refugees in Zongo and Libenge in Equateur province.

Meanwhile, WFP undertook an assessment mission in Matadi which is the capital of Bas Congo province where a very strong interest in FFW projects was expressed by the community leaders and provincial authorities. As of 31 July, the one of its projects was 60 percent resourced for the first year. However, WFP serious shortages of Corn Soya Blend (CSB) and pulses from October onwards. Salt and sugar will also required for January 2002. “WFP urgently needs to secure new contributions to meet the projected requirements up to December,” WFP said.