Urgent funding needed to assist millions of people affected by conflict in Sudan and other countries

Ibrahim Gakong in Sudan

Violence persisting for the tenth week has resulted in the displacement of approximately 2.5 million individuals both within and outside of Sudan. According to the most recent data from the International Organization for Migration (IOM’s) Displacement Tracking Matrix (DTM), over 1.9 million individuals have been forcefully displaced within their own country, while approximately 550,000 people have sought refuge in neighboring nations.

The worsening conflict and increased aggression towards innocent civilians in the nation have intensified the crisis for those affected and forced to flee their homes. During the weekend, a significant number of individuals, estimated to be around 15,000, were compelled to seek refuge in Chad as a consequence of the conflict occurring in El Geneina and various other areas within West Darfur.

There were numerous injured individuals, as well as many children and families who had been separated, among them. Mostly on foot, horseback, and in pickup trucks, they arrived without any possessions and often in a state of physical desolation.

IOM and its partners have expanded their operations in Sudan and surrounding countries where people who have escaped Sudan are seeking refuge. However, the growing demands far exceed the available resources.

More than 24.7 million people in Sudan, which accounts for half of the country’s population, require humanitarian assistance and protection. A prestigious gathering will take place in Geneva today (19 June 2023) to provide substantial support for the humanitarian relief efforts in Sudan and the surrounding area.

The IOM is urging for immediate funding to deliver crucial humanitarian aid to the individuals impacted by the Sudan crisis, as well as those in neighboring countries.

Up to this point, the International Organization for Migration (IOM) has provided essential assistance to more than 23,900 individuals who were unable to evacuate from the most affected parts of Sudan.

The approaching rainy season in Sudan and its neighboring countries, such as South Sudan, Chad, and the Central African Republic (CAR), brings additional challenges and could lead to more people being displaced and hinder the delivery of aid.

The Displacement Tracking Matrix by IOM is now operational in countries such as Chad, Central African Republic, Libya, South Sudan, and Ethiopia. It aims to provide regular updates regarding population movement, including both displacement and cross-border mobility.

The IOM crisis response plan for Sudan (2023), which has been newly released, provides details regarding the Organization’s strategies for preparedness and response, along with the necessary resources required for promptly delivering aid.