September 17, East Jebel Marra — The head of the civil administration of East Jebel Marra in South Darfur State announced that about 120,000 internally displaced people (IDPs) in Jebel Marra are experiencing dire conditions and are in desperate need of health care, food and shelter.
Abdul Majeed Ishaq Bakur said in a statement to Darfur24 that arrangements are being made to hold a “social peace” conference in the coming days that will bring together the localities of East Jebel, Al Wahda and Mirshing, after reaching an agreement to open the connecting Darbat road. He said they hope to prepare for the entry of humanitarian organizations.
A looting incident which took place approximately a month ago blocked the connecting road, and subsequent necessary services and goods from arriving. Bakur said there is a severe lack of medical supplies.
The region has seen a massive influx of displaced people fleeing the conflict in El Fasher, capital of North Darfur state. According to the UN, the conflict in El Fasher has displaced at least 143,000 civilians, many of whom have sought refuge in Jebel Marra. The area has “exceeded the level of famine.”