History & Rebel War

The population of Sierra Leone before the war was said to be about 3.5 million according to some statistics. The Civil War lasted roughly from 1991 to 2002. (source Wikipedia) and the barbaric war left Sierra Leone and its people very vulnerable at home and round the globe.

The contribution of the International Community and their awareness is often mixed with a political agenda instead of seeing the direct and real need of a vulnerable society. 

The war in SL has impacted many aspects of life and including heritage, morals, and cultural aspirations. It is difficult for me to explain in words the psychological, emotional and social effects.

Atrocities
It is difficult to report and describe the terrible atrocities that occurred during the Rebel War (sometimes called the Civil War.) Some of the worst things were the adoption of child soldiers, the  burning of  houses, the be-heading of the elderly, the rape of teenagers, and, most of all, some  families were wiped out completely. Human bodies were left to decay and rot. Freetown the capital was the only  safe place and so the rush of people from all corners of Sierra Leone, to Freetown was unavoidable. The increase of population in the capital become a disaster, the lack of infrastructure for basic necessities where all part of every day struggles. Refugee camps were created in and around the capital, most of them run by NGO's (Non-governmental Organisations.)

The explanation for the course of the out break of EBOLA could be attributed to many things which has happened over the years, I will endeavour to avoid technicalities and politicking's. I am adding myself to those who know and are sufficiently interested in methods and possibilities. The course of this crisis  could be attributed to  basic human errors. As an eye witness starting from the genesis of this crisis, the difficulties encounter I have  explained previously.


The Rebel War
The war has impacted on many things, even though their are a variety of natural  sources SL remains the poorest nation in the Sub Saharan West African region. Lots of effort has been made, but the minds of individuals has been affected by the War. Therefore the nation therefore remains poor and without sustainable living standards and people are no longer able to pursue a 'normal' life because they remain confused, traumatised and easily manipulated. Children who have now become adults have missed engaging in traditional cultural activities and have no basic foundation of social education.

It will be naïve to think that America, Britain or any of the other International Community will be able to solve the countries problems. Any country trying to assist in getting SL back on its 'feet' may have their own agenda. The past and current crisis have their roots in mishandling and self interest of foreign countries or misguided authority figures.

It's believed the mismanagement of the nations natural resources is amongst one of  the contributing factors for the rebel war, which left about 50,000 people dead and 2 million displace as refugees around the world. 


However, the bad memories should be forgotten and a new start made to rebuild, and this should be the utmost priority.