On the challenging way towards peace in Sierra Leone

F r e e t o w n / S i e r r a L e o n e, N o v. 1 8, 2 0 0 2. After lunch we start for a camp close to the beach, with a marvellous view on the sea. It is an "amputee camp". 3,000 people live here under very poor conditions. Most of them are refugees, "living memorials" of the war. We wish to talk with some co-workers about the present situation. A man with two artificial arms leads us to the charman of the camp. He tells us about the disappointing experiences with the government. After the war many relief organisations were here. They promised support and gave money to the government. But in fact very little money was transferred to the people in the camp. Now the victims of the war suffer in several ways: They suffer from their terrible misuse and mutilations, but also because they are used, in order to get money. Apparently the government is more involved in re-integrating the rebels than in re-integrating the victims. In addition, the medical supply is insufficient, no vocational training is offered, and there is lack of food.

During my visits to the different regions I realise that the people in Sierra Leone still suffer from the "traumatic" experiences of the war. There are still more than 15,000 UN soldiers in Sierra Leone, the costs of who amount to 1 million dollar per day. The way towards peace is a challenge. And the message of reconciliation is the commission and the chance of the Baptist churches in Sierra Leone. The local churches are very active for the people in there neighbourhood and region: Many people - also former rebels - visit the very living services. The work with street children "Luke Ministry" offers children care, education and a warm meal. Many Baptist pastors work as teachers in the schools, which often take place in the church rooms or on the grounds of the church. Also medical advice and help is offered. The eye clinic in Lunsar will be rebuilt, so that one day this very valuable help can be given again, as it was before the war. Sierra Leone finds itself at the point of a new beginning. We are willing and able to support the people and our brothers and sisters in this task. Please pray for Sierra Leone, please support our work.

Volker Bohle

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