December 8, 2007:
An outbreak
of Ebola virus, that began in September has, continued to spread. At least 30
people have died from the disease. Another one hundred to three hundred people
are described as "at risk" of contracting the disease. Four medical workers have
died from it. Disease is a huge problem in developing countries, but Central
Africa is one of the world's "disease incubators." Medical skills are scarce in
most developing countries. The loss of medical personnel to an epidemic not
only has immediate effects (ie, fewer doctors and nurses to treat victims), but
the loss degrades long-term development efforts.
December 7, 2007: Despite
demands by domestic political opposition leaders, Uganda continues to "hold
steady" its peacekeeping force in Somalia. Currently 1,600 Ugandan soldiers are
serving in Somalia.
November 30, 2007: An LRA
defector is insisting that LRA deputy commander Vincent Otti was "executed" in
October 2007. The order to kill Otti was given by the LRA's senior leader,
Joseph Kony. According to the defector, Otti's execution took place on October
2. A Ugandan spokesman said that if the report proves to be true it will not
change Ugandan policy. Uganda intends to "continue the peace process" with the
LRA.
Seven LRA fighters surrendered
to UN troops in Congo's in Ituri province. The UN will repatriate the LRA
fighters to Uganda. The LRA fighters surrendered under terms of the amnesty
promised by the Ugandan government.
October 27, 2007:
Apparently, the LRA is selling food aid
bought with funds provided by Switzerland, Austria, Denmark, and Sweden. The
aid is delivered to LRA assembly areas in South Sudan. Peace negotiators are
concerned that if the reported diversion of food aid is true that the LRA could
use the money to buy weapons.