Plantains are also said to be more important than before. In Lofa county, one of Liberia's main rice producing areas, fighting is still continuing. Periodic rebel incursions since August 1999 intensified in October and have disrupted farming and displaced thousands of people, notably in the towns of Gorlu, Ganglota and Selayae. Government forces have recaptured Voinjama and Kolahun from the rebels. Liberia closed its border with Sierra Leone with effect from 19 March and ordered the security organs to enforce the closure.
Security remains precarious.
Thousands of Guineans fleeing hostilities in their country have also sought refuge in border towns in Liberia. Food distribution to Sierra Leonean refugees in camps in Montserrado and Sinje areas in Grand Cape Mount County are also underway.