The Crisis in Darfur
The conflict in Sudan was sparked when rebels from Darfur attacked a government air force base in 2003. The rebels are mostly people from the Fur, Massalit and Zaghawa tribes. For years they have felt ignored by the central government in Khartoum, and feel they have been denied their basic rights. In retaliation for the 2003 attack, Sudan's military and the government-backed militias, the Janjaweed, have repeatedly attacked the African residents of Darfur. The Janjaweed and government forces have burned villages, murdered and maimed residents, poisoned wells, raped women, stolen animals and other valuables, and kidnapped children. They have killed over 200,000 Darfuris.Learn More: 10 Basic Facts about Darfur
Darfuri Refugees and IDPs
Over 2.5 million Darfuris have been forced to flee their homes because of the ongoing conflict. Most have moved to internally displaced persons (IDP) camps within Sudan, but approximately 250,000 Darfuris have fled to refugee camps in eastern Chad. Those living in refugee camps are resilient despite the fact that they lost their land and livelihood. Although they are now forced to rely on international aid for food and shelter, Darfuri refugees dream of someday returning to their villages and to a peaceful Sudan. They dream of hope and stability, but most of all they dream of a better future for their children.
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Refugee: A person who leaves his or her country when threatened by unsafe living conditions, typically brought on by violence or natural disaster. There are approximately 250,000 refugees from the Darfur region, most of them living in Chad. Internally displaced person (IDP): A person who is forced to relocate within his or her own country when threatened by unsafe living conditions, typically brought on by violence or natural disaster. Approximately 2.5 million IDPs have been created by the violence in Darfur. Most of these people live in camps and survive on humanitarian aid provided by over 75 non-profit organizations, such as the Red Cross or Save the Children. Learn More: Sudan Glossary |
Darfuri Refugee Children
UNICEF estimates that 60% of the population in the Darfuri refugee camps are children. Most of the children have lost one or both of their parents, some of whom were murdered. Some of the children have witnessed horrendous atrocities that are extremely difficult for any adult or child to process or move past. Education in a secure and stable school environment will help children overcome traumatic experiences and prepare them for a brighter future. Join the Sister Schools Program now and provide Darfuri refugee children with hope for the future.
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