Plan continues its vital work in Darfur

Plan has worked in Sudan for over 30 years, and moved into Darfur in 2005 in response to the humanitarian crisis caused by long-running conflict in the area.

The Darfur conflict erupted in early 2003 with fighting between the government and various factions. The conflict is rooted in long-term disputes over resources between farmers and herders.

It grew out of opposition to the Sudanese government by two rebel groups, the Sudan Liberation Army and the Justice and Equality Movement. The conflict has caused huge asset-stripping and population displacement.

Indiscriminate attacks on villages have not only killed and injured civilians but also destroyed or looted housing, community services, wells, farms, livestock, and other properties, destroying livelihoods and reducing potential for recovery.

The result was the large scale movement and displacement of highly vulnerable and traumatised populations, who are almost completely dependant on humanitarian aid for survival.

In 2005, the population affected by the conflict was estimated at 2.74 million, of which 1.88 million have been displaced from their homes. Communities are sheltering in over 125 locations.

Most of the displaced are now living in camps or with host populations in urban areas, heavily dependent on international assistance for survival.

Plan’s focus in the area is on education, water and sanitation, and meeting basic health needs such as vaccination and malaria prevention.