Darfur displaced criticise food distribution

The residents of Zamzam camp near El Fasher, capital of North Darfur, are complaining about the traders who have been entrusted by the UN World Food Programme (WFP) to distribute food rations. Residents explained to Radio Dabanga that only 45,000 of 114,540 displaced received their rations of corn and millet. The food was also not distributed to them in a timely manner on 7 January as agreed, and they had to wait until 23 January. The displaced demand that the WFP take over the distribution of food rations to the displaced, They say that the traders do not have the ability to provide food in the quantities specified or within the appointed time. The displaced of Kassab and Fatta Borno camps in Kutum locality of North Darfur complain of the poor security and humanitarian situation in the locality. They accuse the government of no longer protecting the civilians, favouring the militias and giving them a free hand. An activist appealed via Radio Dabanga to the organisations concerned with humanitarian relief to guarantee the flow of food rations in a timely manner as the displaced in both camps have become trapped. They are unable to go to into the open or cultivate their lands because of repeated violations by the militias and the absence of the police and judiciary. The activist noted that despite Unamid’s presence in both camps, it is “playing the role of a spectator without providing any protection”.File photo: Humanitarian aid for distribution in Darfur.Related:Food prices soar in South Darfur capital (5 February 2014) Malnutrition reaches 40% among Darfur children: Unicef (5 February 2014)