Luanda/Brussels, 26 February 2003: One year after the death
of rebel leader Jonas Savimbi, Angola is on the verge of a remarkable recovery from decades
of war and poised to claim a leadership role on the African continent. Oil resources give it an
important voice in the world economy.
In a report released today –
Dealing with Savimbi's Ghost: The Security and Humanitarian Challenges in Angola*
– the International Crisis Group points out, however, that the recovery may be short-lived,
and the foundation could be laid for renewed instability if the government and its
international partners do not quickly do a better job of solving pressing problems.
The most immediate challenges are what are traditionally
characterised as humanitarian issues, but with political and security
implications. With one million dead, a third of the population displaced, and a
heavily militarised society, the war legacy is still heavy. Over 100,000
ex-combatants of the former rebel group UNITA, each accompanied by an average
of six civilian household members, must be reintegrated back into society.
Millions of displaced and refugees – the third highest dislocation rate globally
– must also be resettled. And millions of landmines must be removed – one of
the heaviest infestations in the world.
"If the government meets these challenges responsibly, and the international
community provides complementary support, Angola's stability will be ensured", said John Prendergast,
ICG's Africa Program Co-Director. "But if the government minimises these issues, particularly the
reintegration of ex-combatants, the resultant crime and warlordism will form the basis for
serious trouble not far down the road".
So far, the response has been highly uneven. Although the government's
cooperation with UNITA to help disarm and demobilise former fighters was exemplary, its
preparation for their reintegration has been disorganised and late. Promised payments have
been irregular, and programs to train, educate, or return ex-combatants to agriculture have
been almost non-existent. Whether the government and its international partners can step up
the pace and establish workable programs will to a great extent determine whether or not
Angola succeeds at peace building.
"The government's recognition that it is in its strategic self-interest
to respond to these needs will be the key determinant to winning the peace", John Prendergast
said. "In its transition to democracy, responsiveness and accountability will be increasingly
important. Reintegration and de-mining can be visible symbols of positive change. If the
government responds well, donors should generously complement its efforts, and contribute to
what could be a real African success story".
MEDIA CONTACTS
Francesca Lawe-Davies (Brussels) +32-(0)2-536.00.65
Kathy Ward (Washington) +1-202-785 1601
*Read the full ICG report on our website:
www.crisisweb.org
