Background
Since early 2003, fighting between armed groups in the Darfur region of western Sudan has forced 2.8 million people from their homes. Fleeing the violence, they have sought safety in overcrowded camps and towns where aid groups have provided them with food, water, medical care and other basic assistance.
But the aid effort was never able to fully meet the needs of those affected by the conflict, so when the licenses of sixteen aid agencies were revoked in March 2009, the precarious situation on the ground became dire.
The people of Darfur continue to be the targets of armed factions, even in the camps for displaced people. There are regular reports of civilians being attacked in towns and camps throughout the region, and women who venture beyond the settlements to collect firewood risk harassment, assault, and even death.
Physical attacks are not the only danger to those trying to survive this conflict. Living in flimsy shelters and unhygienic conditions, many people lack the most basic items, such as buckets for carrying water and soap for washing. The situation is even worse for new camp arrivals, who often have no shelter at all and little access to food and water. With so many people living in such cramped quarters, the threat of disease is enormous.
As of April 2009, the crisis had affected about 4 million people in Darfur.
Oxfam has been providing clean water, sanitation facilities, shelter materials, assistance in restoring incomes, fuel-efficient stoves, and trainings on how to stay healthy under difficult camp conditions.
