UN General Assembly
1994

Leoneans, who now total an estimated 300,000 and 400,000 respectively. Further, the untold devastation of the country’s economically productive areas continues to undermine an already fragile economy. My Government realizes that even though our meagre resources are now committed to bringing this rebel war to an end, we must necessarily look forward to the reconstruction of our country and its economy, a task whose success will be greatly enhanced through collaboration with the United Nations system, especially in working out a programme for the rehabilitation of the devastated areas and the resettlement of our refugees and displaced citizens. To this end, we have already laid the foundations for the expeditious rehabilitation of these areas upon the conclusion of the war, by setting up a National Rehabilitation Committee that will oversee our efforts in this matter. While, as a Government, we continue with reluctance to pursue the military option in prosecuting this war — and we wish to record here our appreciation to all friendly Governments, particularly Nigeria, Guinea and the People’s