Mali: IPDs returning to their homes in Mali

Bamako, Mali (PANA) – The number of Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) in Mali following the conflict in 2012 in the north of the country when Islamist militants took control of the area, has dropped as people return to their homes, according to a report released by the International Migration Organization (IMO).

The number of IPDs is now estimated at 199,575, down 29.6% from 283,276 in October last year.

In the South of the country, Bamako, the capital, continues to receive the largest number of displaced persons (46,143) followed by Koulikoro (19,101) and Ségou (12,139).

In the North, Timbuktu has the largest number (43,959), followed by Kidal (34,092) and Gao (29,326).

The latest IMO report received by PANA on Friday also released information on the current needs expressed by the displaced population.

The data said out of the 1,523 families questioned, 49% needed financial aid, 26% needed shelter and 16% expressed specific needs related to health and employment.

The investigation also concluded that most of the IPDs expressed the wish to return to their region of origin. while only 13% expressed the wish to stay where they were.
-0- PANA GT/TBM/MSA/MA 28Feb2014