$3 million grant from Japan to aid UN efforts in Sierra Leone
United Nations efforts to help the reconstruction of Sierra Leone and reintegration of ex-combatants will get new resources following the approval of a $3 million grant by the Japanese Government, the UN Mission in the country, UNAMSIL, said today in Freetown.
According to the Mission, the funds will be used over a period of three years to support reintegration opportunities for ex-combatants in northern and eastern districts of Sierra Leone. Close to 5,000 ex-combatants in self-employment and various vocational training and formal education programmes will be among the beneficiaries.
As the recipient and custodian of the funds, the UN Development Programme (UNDP) will be responsible for the overall management of the grant, which came from the Japanese Human Security Fund.
Through its disarmament and reintegration office, UNAMSIL will serve as the focal point for the implementation of the programme, working in close cooperation with the National Committee for Disarmament, Demobilization and Reintegration (NCDDR), a partner of the Sierra Leone Government.
In addition, the International Organization for Migration, the Government of Sierra Leone and non-governmental organizations (NGOs) will also take part in the effort.