Thousands flee Angola conflict

The United Nation refugee agency has said that 3,500 Angolans have arrived in Zambia this week, fleeing from renewed fighting between government forces and Unita rebels.

A spokesman said 60% were children suffering severe malnutrition.

Clashes between the Angolan army and Unita rebels have intensified in recent months, as they try to consolidate positions before the rainy season.

Correspondents say the new violence comes at a time of growing international pressure for a ceasefire and peace talks. There are more than 400,000 Angolan refugees in neighbouring countries - half of them in Zambia.

From the newsroom of the BBC World Service