United States. Central Intelligence Agency, CIA World Fact Book, 2004 — Sierra Leone (2004)
“ The 1991 to 2002 civil war between the government and the Revolutionary United Front (RUF) resulted in tens of thousands of deaths and the displacement of more than 2 million people (well over one-third of the population) , many of whom are now refugees in neighboring countries. ”
United States. Central Intelligence Agency, CIA World Fact Book, 2004 — Sierra Leone (2004)
“ About two-thirds of the working-age population engages in subsistence agriculture. Manufacturing consists mainly of the processing of raw materials and of light manufacturing for the domestic market. Plans continue to reopen bauxite and rutile mines shut down during the conflict. The major source of hard currency consists of the mining of diamonds. The fate of the economy depends upon the maintenance of domestic peace and the continued receipt of substantial aid from abroad, which is essential to offset the severe trade imbalance and to supplement government revenues. ”
United States. Central Intelligence Agency, CIA World Fact Book, 2004 — Sierra Leone (2004)
“ Natural hazards: dry, sand-laden harmattan winds blow from the Sahara (December to February) ; sandstorms, dust storms Environment - current issues: rapid population growth pressuring the environment; overharvesting of timber, expansion of cattle grazing, and slash-and-burn agriculture have resulted in deforestation and soil exhaustion; civil war depleting natural resources ”
