WFP change prompts ‘food crisis’ in Chad camp for Darfur refugees

A severe food crisis has broken out at camp Jebel for Sudanese refugees in eastern Chad after the World Food Programme (WFP) had replaced the edible wheat for another dark variety since the beginning of this month. The new variety has been rejected by the refugees, according to the Omda who is the head of the camp. He said that a National Committee for Refugees’ Reception had led to mediation between the refugees and the WFP to resolve the dilemma, but this has had no effect thus far. The Omda criticised WFP officials for avoiding finding a solution and “forcing the refugees to eat this wheat as a staple food”. He also denounced that the provision of flour mixture has been stopped since last April. “The distribution is due to be resumed next October, but we were not given any clarifying reason for that decision.” The Omda explained that the refugees refuse to use the new wheat as a staple food. “It is not suitable do be ground into the Darfuri porridge called Asida.” He demanded via Radio Dabanga that the WFP take the situation of the refugees into account but supplying appropriate grain. He also asked that they assist to provide for their educational and water needs. File photo: WFP food distribution (Unamid)