The Zamzam refugee camp is one of the largest internally displaced persons (IDP) camps in Sudan, located 15 kilometres (9.3 mi) south of Al-Fashir, North Darfur. It was established in 2004 to accommodate the massive influx of people displaced by the war in Darfur. As of now, the camp houses approximately 500,000 displaced individuals.[1] In the light of the Sudanese civil war (2023–present), the camp is currently facing severe humanitarian challenges, including a catastrophic malnutrition crisis.[2] Conditions have deteriorated to the point where famine-like situations have emerged, with reports of high child mortality rates, and experts describe the crisis as man-made and preventable.[3][4]
Establishments
The Zamzam refugee camp was established in 2004, situated approximately 15 kilometres (9.3 mi) from the city of Al-Fashir, the capital of North Darfur, to accommodate the influx of internally displaced persons (IDPs) fleeing violence and persecution during the Darfur conflict, which erupted in 2003.[5] The conflict involved various armed groups, including the Sudanese government and Janjaweed militias, leading to widespread atrocities against civilians, including ethnic cleansing and mass killings. The United Nations estimates that over 2.5 million people have been displaced due to the conflict, with Zamzam being one of the significant camps providing refuge to these vulnerable populations.[6][7] The camp has grown significantly over the years, with estimates suggesting that it houses tens of thousands of residents, primarily from the Fur, Zaghawa, and Masalit ethnic groups.[8][5]
Humanitarian organisations, including the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) and various non-governmental organizations (NGOs), provide essential services. The COVID-19 pandemic has further complicated the situation, as the camp's overcrowded conditions make it difficult to implement effective health measures, increasing the risk of outbreaks.[9] The Zamzam camp has a high rates of malnutrition, communicable diseases, and maternal and child mortality among the camp's population compared to the general Sudanese population.[10][11] Moreover, many individuals experience trauma, anxiety, and depression, which are often exacerbated as mental health services are scarce, and the stigma surrounding mental health issues further complicates access to care.[11][12]
In Zamzam camp, many families depend on external assistance as employment opportunities are limited, and the camp's economy is largely informal, characterised by small-scale trade and subsistence agriculture.[13][14] Initiatives aimed at improving education, vocational training, and livelihood opportunities are being implemented, albeit on a limited scale.[15][16]
Sudanese civil war (2023–present)
The ongoing civil war in Sudan has severely impacted Zamzam Refugee Camp, pushing it into famine conditions.[3][17][18] The conflict, primarily between the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) and the Rapid Support Forces (RSF), has led to significant displacement, with the camp’s population swelling to around 500,000 people, with a significant portion being women and children.[1][3]
The situation in Zamzam is dire, with high rates of malnutrition and mortality, particularly among children. Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF) has reported alarming levels of acute malnutrition and a high number of child deaths, with at least one child dying every 2 hours.[19][20] The camp’s residents face severe shortages of food, clean water, and medical supplies.[21][2] Restrictions and blockades have hindered the delivery of essential aid, exacerbating the crisis.[3][17]
In August 2024, the Integrated Food Security Phase Classification (IPC) Famine Review Committee (FRC) concluded that famine conditions are prevalent in parts of North Darfur, including the camp.[22] In the same month, the SAF also bombed and killed children in the famine-hit camp in El Fasher.[23]
Sexual violence and rape cases also skyrocketed amidst the ceasefire, especially in Zamzam refugee camp.[24]
