Humanitarian needs and gaps in Al Gazira State – SCCU Publication #6

Co-authored with Saada Naiel

Al Gazira State, located in central Sudan, has witnessed a significant influx of internally displaced persons (IDPs) and refugees fleeing escalating violence and insecurity in other regions. According to the latest humanitarian situation report, Al Gazira State hosts more than 300,000 IDPs and 50,000 refugees, mainly from Ethiopia and Eritrea. These populations face multiple challenges, such as lack of access to essential services, food insecurity, protection risks, and exposure to natural hazards.

Several factors, including limited funding, need to be improved. Constraints, bureaucratic impediments, and security incidents hamper the humanitarian response in Al Gazira State. Based on available data and information from various sources, this report provides an overview of humanitarian needs and gaps in Al Gazira State and highlights the main priorities and recommendations for humanitarian action.

Recommendations

Unhindered Humanitarian access

• Unhindered humanitarian access to Al Gazira State and other parts of the country.
• Support the restoration and strengthening of the banking system and facilitate cash transfers and vouchers for humanitarian assistance.
• Ensure the adequate and timely delivery of medical supplies to Al Gazira and support health facilities and staff to provide quality care to affected populations.

Coordination at the field level

• Develop a service map and coordination body at the field level to harmonise and monitor humanitarian interventions, share information and best practices, identify gaps and priorities, and ensure accountability and transparency.
• Engage with government authorities to clarify their roles and responsibilities regarding IDPs and seek their support and cooperation in the humanitarian response.

Improved data and registration processes for IDP

• Improve data collection and analysis on IDPs, especially those integrated within host communities, using standardised tools and methods, involving community leaders and representatives, and addressing the stigma and sensitivities around the term IDP.
• Establish a clear and consistent registration system for new IDPs based on needs and preferences and provide them with adequate shelter, food, water, sanitation, health, education, protection, and livelihood support.

Increased support for the agricultural sector

• Support the agricultural sector by providing seeds, tools, fertilisers, irrigation systems, extension services, market access, and early warning systems to mitigate the impact of drought and conflict on food security and nutrition.