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Central Africa Regional Overview
For more than three years, conflict between the Sudanese government and armed opposition groups in Sudan's western region of Darfur has resulted in what has been called one of the world's worst humanitarian crises.
Of Darfur's population of approximately 7 million, it is estimated that more than 3.5 million people have been affected by the continued violence-lacking access to basic essential needs such as food, water and shelter. At least 2 million people have been displaced from their homes.
In addition, more than 200,000 Sudanese refugees have crossed into neighboring Chad. Hundreds of thousands have been killed as a direct result of the violence, as combatants are not distinguishing between civilian and military targets. Due to the complexity of the situation, it is difficult to determine exactly how many people have been affected.
With the health and security of millions endangered, continued hostilities hamper the ability of the humanitarian community to provide assistance to those in need. Compounding the already dire situation, local populations' access to their land for the upcoming planting season could be restricted due to ongoing conflict-impacting livelihoods and increasing the number of people dependant on food assistance.
Ongoing violence continues to raise concerns regarding the deteriorating security situation and the immediate needs of refugees as well as internally displaced persons. Population movements within Sudan and into Chad are placing greater stress on the impoverished communities where refuge is being sought and on the limited natural resources available in these areas.
Indiscriminate attacks on civilians, rape, the destruction of property, disappearances and forced displacement all compromises the safety and security of the population. In addition to the ongoing violence, factors such as the region's geography and weather complicate efforts to deliver aid to those affected by the conflict. Providing food, water, shelter and basic supplies such as cooking supplies and medicine continues to be a challenge for aid organizations. Increased attacks on humanitarian workers also create obstacles in the delivery of assistance.
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