After six months of closure and curfew, Liberia's borders were reopened Monday to the delight of people who have seen their lives disrupted by this "quarantine".
Here is the border with Sierra Leone, and the joy of both sides. Ebola has caused thousands of deaths - 9,000 people in total between Liberia, Guinea and Sierra Leone, the three countries most affected by the epidemic. An epidemic is now under control, it is in any case the finding of Liberian President.
A relief to all Liberians who have suffered job losses and food insecurity during this period of restrictions. Small traders blow:
"Our business lives thanks to the business we do with people on the other side of the border, and for them, it's the same, says the man. That's how we work. They come to buy from us, and also sell products. With the closure of the border, they stopped coming, and we are going over there. The cases were difficult during this period. "
Ebola killed here in Liberia, more than anywhere else: nearly 4,000 dead. The epidemic has stabilized: there would be only 9 patients in the country, but 30 new suspected cases emerged late last week. Hence the vigilance of the authorities, despite the lifting of emergency measures.
On 16 February, it is the schools that have reopened their doors. A new school year with 5 months late. Schools, equipped with sanitary kits provided by UNICEF, which has also trained teachers. In turn, they will have to raise student awareness of hygiene.
The country gradually resumes normal activity.
"Our economy has suffered severely. Now that the borders are reopened, I think it means the end of Ebola, but it is true that we are not 100% certain, "said Colonel here Gmakoon Monger, the Immigration and Naturalization Office .
If open borders some hope that the recovery of the economy in this country among the poorest in the world, the greatest caution is still required course.
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