message from my brother in Sierra Leone : Happy Friday Everyone, Sorry for not getting back to you sooner, Ive been quite busy these last few weeks with limited access to the internet. Firstly, I want to thank everyone again for their contributions! The Bo District Taskforce has generated sufficient funding for current short-term stop-gap measures, and Im in conversation with the International Rescue Committee and other members of the Taskforce on whether its best at the time to increase the logistics cushion or look at other needed interventions/Districts. Since I last reached out, there has been about an additional 50 cases in the District, but this is relatively small compared to other Districts in the West/North (the current hotspots, that are averaging about 12 new cases a day, and effectively being taken over by the British Military). Over the last month, I have been out in the field doing capacity assessments of the responses in other Districts. Its been both strenuous and rewarding to see how other Districts have coordinated themselves, all with their respective strengths and weaknesses. Without going into detail, like other disasters, and north America for that matter, (party, regional, and interpersonal) politics, self-interest/opportunism, fear, and suspicion are all playing roles in the response. Theres also amazing initiative, goodwill, and many proactive, resilient, and on-point individuals and organizations operating at both local and international levels. While its premature for predictions, there seems to be a semblance of control in some of the hardest hit areas, where the response, while still inadequately funded and supplied, is well coordinated and effective. There are definitely signs of progress and reasons for cautious optimism. Moreover, many survivors are starting to re-emerge and are heading back to the frontlines, showing great determination and strength. In my spare time, Ive been helping to develop several proposals for survivor reintegration, hanging out at the house with Mariama, ruining our clothes with chlorine, making/playing inappropriate Ebola related jokes with our neighbour, and banging my head at Canadas myopic and non-evidence based decision to ban everyone, except Canadians, who have been in the region over the last three months. Thanks again for the support. Its been great to touch base with many of you after such a long time! Will send more about the Bo Taskforce in a few weeks time. Ed ps- attached are some pics from the veranda
Posted on: Mon, 10 Nov 2014 16:40:01 +0000
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