Concord Times (Freetown)
Mohamed Massaquoi
22 June 2009
Freetown — United Nations refugee agency, UNHCR has commemorated World Refugee Day across the country with awareness raising campaign on the activities of refugees and displaced persons.
The occasion was marked by a series of activities ranging from radio discussions, debate and quiz competitions, foot ball marches to traditional ceremonies in Bo in the south and Waterloo, outside Freetown.
UNHCR country representative Valentin Tapsoba said his organization was mandated to lead and coordinate international action to protect refugees and seek durable solutions to their plights.
He said the celebration was significant as it strengthened the relationship between refugees and their host communities.
"World Refugees Day, which falls on June 20th every year, is an opportunity for UNHCR to spread awareness about refugees and other displace people world wild and to raise funds for our major operations and emergencies. The theme for this celebration is 'real people and real need' millions of people forcibly displaced by conflict , persecution and natural disasters have various stories to tell" he said adding that it is an international celebration in which world leaders and humanitarian groups are expected to make informed decisions about the welfare of refugees.
UNHCR officer in charge Veronica Modey-Ebi said the Mayor of Bo, Dr. Wusu Sannoh, resident minister South Shaka Tarawallie and Hon. Mohamed Daffie Banya were all part of the celebration in the district headquarter town of Bo.
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