Kassala restricts activities in shelters for displaced persons

May 2, 2024 (KASSALA) – The situation for the displaced population worsens as the governor of Kassala state, Al-Sadiq Mohamed Al-Azraq, imposed strict restrictions on shelter centers in eastern Sudan. The measures include a ban on activities within the centers.

This comes amid reports of displaced people being expelled from schools in Atbara, northern Sudan, a step raising concerns of similar actions in other states. There are 8.7 million people displaced by the conflict that erupted over a year ago.

According to an emergency order seen by Sudan Tribune, Governor Al-Azraq has banned “the holding of any activity or meetings inside shelter centers, unless permission is obtained from the local authorities or camp management.”

The order also restricts residency in the shelters. Only registered displaced persons with the Red Crescent and those with proper registration documents can stay in the centers. Unauthorized modifications to the housing lists or adding unregistered individuals are prohibited.

The UNHCR estimates that Kassala State hosts about 134,916 displaced people.

Many displaced people are suffering due to a weak response to their humanitarian needs. Having lost their homes, businesses, and jobs, they face severe hunger. According to international organizations, 18 million Sudanese suffer from severe hunger, with nearly 5 million on the brink of famine (source: UN World Food Programme).

The governor granted the army, police forces, and the General Intelligence Service the authority to enforce the emergency order. Violators face imprisonment for up to two years or a fine of 5 million Sudanese pounds (one dollar = 1,350 pounds).