Unamid deputy visits Um Baru displaced

The Deputy Joint Special Representative of the United Nations-African Union Mission in Darfur (Unamid) told newly displaced people in Um Baru that in order to relocate from the crowded land near the Unamid team site, they should continue their dialogue with the local commissioner.

The DJSR, Abdul Kamara, visited the safe zone in Um Baru, North Darfur, where thousands of newly internally displaced people have sought refuge on Thursday. Next to the Unamid team site, the displaced are protected by the peacekeepers, and they receive services from the international NGOs. Their numbers are estimated at 4,500, mainly women and children who fled the Sudan's “dry season military offensive” against rebel movements in East Jebel Marra.

Kamara met with representatives of the displaced community and encouraged them to continue their dialogue with the local commissioner of Um Baru locality, who had promised to allocate some land in the next days to temporarily accommodate them. Many displaced wish to be relocated from the congested land outside the team site to a more spacious area.

The DJSR further appreciated the coordination between Unamid and the international and local partners, mainly in the provision of water, medical assistance, shelter and other assistance. “I am impressed by the work that is going on and the level of coordination demonstrated in responding to this humanitarian challenge.” He stressed the need to improve temporary living conditions of the newly displaced, even as efforts continue to work towards more sustainable solutions.