could work and profe~sional programme implementation and monitoring was possible. Those efforts could then be expanded into other parts of the north. So far, the signs were encouraging. However, there were many people in need beyond the small areas that could now be reached. There was still no mechanism in place in Somalia for reaching those in need in contested areas. The ICRC was continuing its dialogue with the relevant parties to obtain such access. The effects of conflict had also been felt strongly in the south of Somalia, where urban centres had had to absorb large numbers of displaced persons. The resulting problems were most strikingly evident at Mogadishu. The Somali Government and the United Nations would assess the problems at Mogadishu and look for ways to alleviate at least the worst problems. I • • • E/1990/SR.S English Page 16 Mr. OSMAN (Observer for Somalia) said that his Government was seriously concerned at the massive displacement of populations and the widespread destruction of both public and private property in the northern districts of Somalia caused by intensive attacks by armed groups in May and June 1988. It had been estimated that as a result of those attacks over 600,000 people had been internally displaced, while another 400,000 had been scattered in the countryside. In October 1988 Somalia had appealed to the international community for assistance in coping with the situation. In resolution 43/206 the General Assembly had called on all States and the.competent intergovernmental and non-governmental organizations to respond fully to Somali requests for emergency humanitarian rehabilitati~~ assistance. In May 1989 the Secretary-General had appealed to the international community to provide Somalia with humanitarian rehabilitation assistance in an amount of $19.4 million to help the Government deal with the emergency situation. That 
**Analysis**
The text primarily focuses on the humanitarian crisis in Somalia, specifically the displacement of populations, destruction of property, and the need for emergency humanitarian assistance. It mentions the efforts of the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) and the United Nations to address the crisis, as well as the appeal for international assistance. Given the context, it is likely that the category is related to humanitarian aid and relief.

**Category**
Humanitarian aid and relief