MSF has suspended operations in Zamzam camp, North Darfur, due to increased violence and insecurity impacting medical assistance for 500,000 displaced individuals. This decision follows a rise in injuries from conflict, challenges in transporting patients, and deteriorating living conditions. Reports of violence and humanitarian needs continue as new arrivals seek refuge in the camp, emphasizing the need for civilian protection.
Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF) has halted all activities in Zamzam camp, North Darfur, due to escalated violence affecting approximately 500,000 displaced individuals. The decision was made following a series of aggressive attacks that have rendered conditions unsafe for medical assistance. MSF will seek opportunities to support the camp safely while urging armed groups to protect civilians.
Over the past few weeks, MSF’s field hospital treated 139 wounded patients, primarily suffering from gunshot and shrapnel injuries. The facility, intended to address severe malnutrition, lacks the capacity for critical trauma surgery. Tragically, eleven patients, including five children, died due to inadequate treatment and referral capabilities, as MSF faced attacks on ambulances transporting patients.
Intense fighting has erupted in the region between the Rapid Support Forces and the Joint Forces, exacerbating the humanitarian crisis. With the ongoing offensive in El Fasher and attacks on Zamzam camp, access to basic necessities, including water and food, has deteriorated significantly due to looting and destruction of the central market.
MSF’s head of mission in Sudan, Yahya Kalilah, lamented the heartbreaking necessity of halting operations amid growing needs in Zamzam. Over two years, teams have struggled to overcome numerous obstacles to deliver essential care, yet with violence encroaching upon the camp, safety concerns forced their withdrawal.
The continual insecurity, difficulty in resupply, and challenges in staff deployment prompted this decision. Zamzam camp continues to receive new arrivals from regions like Abu Zerega and Shagra, with displaced individuals living in makeshift shelters. Reports from these individuals detail widespread violence, including arson, assault, and sexual violence, as they flee for safety.
MSF’s withdrawal from Zamzam camp underscores the dire conditions posed by escalating violence in North Darfur. Despite urgent humanitarian needs, ongoing insecurity and infrastructural deteriorations render it impossible for MSF to operate safely. The need for international response and protection for civilians in conflict zones like Zamzam is paramount as the humanitarian crisis deepens.
Original Source: reliefweb.int
