ACT-Caritas continues life-saving activities despite increased tension in region
NEWS STORY | PUBLISHED: October 10, 2007
NYALA, SOUTH DARFUR, SUDAN -- The ACT-Caritas Darfur Emergency Response programme in Sudan’s South Darfur has temporarily relocated a number of international staff from Darfur to Khartoum in light of the insecurity in the region.
The director of the ACT-Caritas operation, which works under the umbrella of Norwegian Church Aid in the country, Dr John Distefano said, "This is a precautionary measure in line with standard procedures and we hope to have our staff back in the field after the Eid holiday to continue their work to support the seriously affected communities of Darfur."
Dr Distefano further stated that most non-essential tasks are usually suspended during the Eid season, when the Government of Sudan allows a five day holiday for national staff. However, all essential life-saving activities continue, with staff assigned duties on a rotational basis. ACT-Caritas hopes to have the relocated staff return to Darfur later during the month, should conditions allow for their return.
The situation in Darfur has continued to be unpredictable over the last three months, with increased insecurity and challenges for humanitarian operations, such as the ACT-Caritas response.
