Hampered by Insecurity, CRS Relief Activities Continue in Liberia

Catholic Relief Services
Wednesday, 18 June 2003

With news of a ceasefire between government and rebel groups spawning hope for a peaceful resolution to Liberia's crisis, Catholic Relief Services (CRS), working with its local partner, Caritas Monrovia, continues to distribute emergency food aid to thousands of displaced Liberians. In recent days CRS has distributed 100 metric tons of food to more than 1,700 displaced families in Buchanan, Liberia's second largest city, located approximately 75 miles from the capital, Monrovia.

"While we are pleased to have been able to provide some relief, and we are hopeful that the ceasefire will allow peace to take root, many Liberians remain in great need," said Ray Studer, Catholic Relief Services country representative for Liberia. "Those needs will largely remain until aid agencies are able operate with a reasonable degree of security."

Fighting between Liberian government forces and a collection of rebel groups, who control two-thirds of the country, had intensified in the months preceding Tuesday's ceasefire agreement. The conflict has uprooted hundreds of thousands, including tens of thousands last week alone. According to the United Nations, the conflict has made nearly three quarters of the country inaccessible to aid groups.

CRS, which last week had to close its office in Monrovia due to the security situation, reported that the food distributions were delayed on several occasions due to fighting between government and rebel forces, while numerous other programs remain stalled. In anticipation of improved security, CRS continues to work with local partner organizations to assess needs of the most vulnerable Liberians, particularly the elderly, blind and handicapped. Priority needs include water, sanitation, food, shelter and medical services.

CRS has been working in Liberia since 1990, initially providing emergency assistance after the start of the civil war. The agency continues to support activities in areas such as health, agriculture, education and peace building.

For more information, or to contact Catholic Relief Services, see their website at: www.catholicrelief.org