Date: 15th October 2024
Kalma Internally Displaced Persons (IDP) Camp Crisis in Nyala, South Darfur
As of 14th October 2024, the Kalma IDP camp in Nyala, South Darfur, faces a dire situation. An armed group has surrounded the camp, demanding the return of cattle they claim were stolen by the camp’s residents. The group has issued threats of looting if their demands are not met, creating an imminent threat of violence.
This is not the first instance of aggression.
On 27th September 2024, the same group abducted a 14-year-old boy, Al-Nour Ahmed, from Centre 8 within the camp, demanding cattle or compensation in exchange for his release. After intervention by several parties, Al-Nour was freed, but tensions have since escalated.
Camp residents are pleading for immediate intervention, and the Darfur Network for Human Rights (DNHR) has called on the Rapid Support Forces (RSF), responsible for camp security, to protect civilians. DNHR also appeals to the United Nations and the Security Council for urgent action to prevent further violence. Without swift intervention, the already vulnerable population of Kalma camp faces severe violence and looting. Immediate action from the international community and local authorities is necessary to prevent escalation.
Report on the Illegal Killing in Central Darfur State
On Tuesday, 8th October 2024, around 4:00 PM, an 18-year-old displaced person named Al Tayeb Saleh Abaker was shot dead in Dankoj Market, Central Darfur, Sudan, approximately 35 km northeast of Zalingei. Al Tayeb, a resident of Hamidia IDP camp, was reportedly killed by two members of the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) dressed in RSF uniforms. According to his mother, Fatima Ismail Nur, her son was targeted because of his Furawi ethnicity, reflecting rising ethnic tensions in the region.
This incident has escalated fears of further tribal conflict and highlights the ongoing violence and insecurity in Central Darfur. Immediate action is required to prevent further ethnic-based violence.
Report on the Inter-Agency Mission to South Darfur State and Challenges Faced
On Wednesday, 9th October 2024, a delegation from UN agencies and international organizations (INGOs), led by Humanitarian Coordinator Mr. Toby Harward, visited Nirtiti in Central Darfur State. The mission aimed to assess the humanitarian situation in IDP camps in South Darfur, including Kalma, Otash, Derij, Alsalam, Belil, and Dirbat camps in East Jabal Marra.
This was the first official visit since the outbreak of conflict between the Sudan Armed Forces (SAF) and the RSF. However, the mission was halted when authorities ordered the delegation to return, denying them further access to the camps.
This setback adds to the suffering of civilians who continue to face hunger, disease, and a lack of basic services in the camps.
Report on NRC Mission to Nertiti, Central Darfur State
On Friday, 6th October 2024, the Norwegian Refugee Council (NRC) visited IDP camps in Nertiti locality, Central Darfur State, to assess the humanitarian situation and market conditions. The camps, established during multiple waves of displacement (2004, 2016, 2023, and 2024), host thousands of displaced people affected by the ongoing conflict.
Community leaders raised the following urgent concerns:
- Hunger and Malnutrition: Severe malnutrition, particularly among children and pregnant women, is widespread, leading to numerous health issues and fatalities.
- Unsafe Drinking Water: A lack of clean water has led to diseases such as dysentery, kidney issues, and skin conditions.
- Shortage of Medical Supplies: Health centers lack essential medicines and nutritional supplements for malnourished individuals.
- Lack of Education: Many children are unable to attend school due to the absence of educational facilities and spend their time in local markets instead.
- Request for Aid: Residents have requested additional relief supplies, with a preference for direct financial assistance over in-kind aid.
Rising market prices have exacerbated the situation, with grain prices reaching unsustainable levels. After the visit to Nertiti, the NRC delegation proceeded to Golo, Rokoro, and Tawilla in North Darfur. DNHR continues to advocate for increased support for vulnerable populations in IDP camps and conflict-affected areas.
Report on the Security Situation in Sirba Locality, West Darfur State
As of early October 2024, approximately 4,050 families from Abu Sourouj and 3,205 families from Sirba village, West Darfur, have fled due to intense fighting between the RSF and joint forces. Most families have sought refuge near the Sudan-Chad border, fearing further violence.
The International Organization for Migration (IOM) reports that displacement began soon after clashes erupted, and the situation remains tense and unpredictable. Sirba locality, located 52 km north of Al Genina, has faced repeated attacks by the RSF and allied militias.
Report on Raids and Security Tensions in Zalingei, Central Darfur State
On 5th October 2024, the RSF raided an Internet café in the Kunjumiya neighborhood of Zalingei using eight Landcruiser vehicles equipped with military gear. The RSF looted 15 smartphones, confiscated two Wi-Fi networks, and seized three solar power systems.
The following day, on 6th October 2024, another Internet café in the Al Wadi East neighborhood was raided, with more smartphones stolen. These raids represent a troubling pattern of immoral activities by the RSF.
In a serious development, four RSF soldiers entered Hamidya Camp for IDPs, informing camp leaders that the Governor of Central Darfur State had requested a meeting with 20 community representatives. The RSF and the Governor have accused the camp of harboring members of armed movements aligned with the SAF, heightening security tensions within the camp.
Report on Aerial Bombardment of Al Kuma Market, North Darfur State
On Thursday, 4th October 2024, Al Kuma Market, located 81 km north of El Fasher, was bombarded by Sudanese army warplanes. The attack, which occurred on the weekly market day, resulted in significant human and material losses, including the destruction of buildings and goods.
This marks the seventh aerial bombardment by the Sudanese army in the area, raising concerns about the impact of the ongoing conflict on civilians and infrastructure. The field coordination office is investigating further and will provide updates as details emerge.
DNHR Call to Action: Protect Civilians in Darfur
The Darfur Network for Human Rights (DNHR) urgently calls on the international community, the United Nations, and humanitarian organizations to:
- Provide Immediate Protection: Ensure the protection of civilians in Darfur, particularly in conflict-affected areas, including IDP camps and market areas where violence has escalated.
- Facilitate Unhindered Humanitarian Access: Advocate for unrestricted access for humanitarian organizations to deliver essential aid, medical supplies, food, and water to vulnerable populations.
- Ensure Accountability: Demand accountability for human rights violations committed by all parties to the conflict, including the RSF, SAF, and allied forces, and call for an immediate cessation of hostilities.
- Support Peacebuilding Efforts: Actively engage in peace negotiations and conflict resolution processes to ensure sustainable and lasting peace in Sudan.
- Monitor and Prevent Future Escalation: Increase monitoring and reporting on violations to prevent further escalation of violence and displacement.
Urgent intervention is essential to prevent further suffering and restore security and stability in the Darfur region.