Displacement Crisis Deepens in Northern State, Sudan, as 57,000 Flee Violence

The humanitarian situation in Northern State, Sudan, has worsened, with approximately 57,000 people displaced from Darfur and Kordofan, seeking refuge in two camps: Azhari Khalafallah Camp in Al-Afadd and Al-Dabba town. According to Dr. Kawthar Jaafar, Humanitarian Aid Commissioner in Al-Dabba Locality, the displaced individuals, including many children, have endured harsh conditions, with some arriving with injuries and malnutrition.

The number of displaced persons has increased significantly, with 200 families initially received before the fall of El-Fashir, and a subsequent influx of 650 families, totaling 32,000 individuals. Dr. Jaafar noted that more newcomers are expected, with 50,000 people fleeing El-Fashir and 7,000 others escaping violence in Darfur and Kordofan.

To address the crisis, about 500 tents have been provided in the first phase, with an additional 500 in the second phase. Essential food, medical supplies, and sustainable water sources are being secured, with the Northern State Water Authority implementing a water project. However, a clear plan for the schooling of displaced children remains elusive, despite ongoing consultations and commitments. The two camps host around 250 school-aged children and 310 preschool-aged children.

Al-Hassan Ibrahim, head of the Services and Emergency Committee at Azhari Khalafallah Camp, reported that seven committees have been formed to organize camp operations, including services, health, and environmental management. Various organizations, such as Qatar Charity and Sadaqat, have provided food baskets, shelter, and medical supplies. President of the Transitional Sovereignty Council, General Abdel-Fattah Al-Burhan, has instructed that water services must be sustained, with a high-quality borehole being drilled in coordination with the Northern State Water Authority.

Northern State Minister of Culture and Information, Al-Bagir Okasha, praised the initiative of the Ministry of Culture, Information, and Tourism in dispatching a media convoy to review the conditions of displaced persons. The state has pledged to provide necessary services to the displaced individuals until they return to their homes and the region is liberated from rebellion. The situation remains a pressing concern, with the international community urged to provide support to address the humanitarian crisis in Northern State, Sudan.