Darfur – WFP rations suspended in El Geneina camp

Activists and sheikhs at El Geneina camps in West Darfur have informed Radio Dabanga that food rations have been suspended for almost two months following a dispute about distribution. According to the activists and sheikhs the World Food Programme (WFP) proposed to distribute the food rations through traders from the El Geneina market but the camp’s sheikhs and leaders refused. “We refused the offer because the food is not available in the state,” they said. “The displaced are also not convinced that the traders will be able to fulfil their promises in a timely manner.” The activists requested WFP if food rations are to be distributed by traders, the distribution should take place inside the camp itself. “It will create a security risk if residents have to leave the camp to collect their rations from El Geneina market. This will leave the camp almost empty, and additionally, the displaced will also be at risk of attack by militants.” The activists said that as a result of the failure to reach an agreement the WFP decided to suspend food ration distribution in El Geneina camps; a measure that has been in effect for almost two months.File photo