Sudan
(MNN) — The United Nations says Sudan's
genocide has now displaced well over a third of Darfur's
population. The violence is spilling
into neighboring countries.
Punitive action and peace accords have had little-to-no
impact on the violence between the government and militia groups.
As a result, the UN Security Council is discussing a
U.S. backed proposal to impose sanctions on Sudan. The action comes over the government's
refusal to allow UN peacekeepers to deploy in Darfur.
Partners International works with "Reverend Alexander," who
shares his concerns. "There's a lot of conflict in eastern Chad and in central Africa because of what's
going on in Darfur. There's a lot of killing happening, and for that
reason, many organizations have stopped operating in different parts of Darfur. I believe that's going to affect the ministry
because most of those camps we're operating in [are] not safe."
Apparently the UN humanitarian chief agrees. He's told the Security Council that Sudan blames aid workers in Darfur
for inappropriate political activities, adding that the government does not
tolerate people who speak about violation of humanitarian rights.
Widespread complaints from humanitarian aid groups prompted
an investigation about the degree of difficulty in reaching refugees with
shelter, food, medicine, and other needs. According to the statistics, Darfur is now the scene of the biggest aid operation in
the world, and that's likely to escalate if the conflict continues.
Reverend Alexander says the outreach of the Africa Inland
Church (AIC) in Sudan has built
relationships that continue to grow. "By the time we got to the camp, we
were so surprised by the spirit of welcoming from the Darfurians, because they
trust the church. Since the conflict started, the churches have been close
there in the field; they have been helping them, and they have been working
with them."
Partners International is trying to help families rebuild their lives and
their hope by providing food and clothing for those still in camps, or farm
tools and seeds for families returning to the South. They can't do it alone. The cost to meet the needs of millions is
staggering. If you can help, click here.
