Sudan's Refugee Crisis: A Struggle for Survival at the Chad Border

In the small town of Tine, Chad, near the Sudanese border, refugees face a dire situation. Many have fled violence in Sudan, only to find little help upon arrival.

Stories of Survival

Najwa Isa Adam, a 32-year-old refugee, now cooks for other displaced families. She escaped al-Fashir, where she was held captive and assaulted by paramilitary forces. Her story is not unique; many refugees share similar tales of hardship.

Ibrahim Mohamed Ishaq, a 35-year-old refugee, fled al-Fashir with his family after witnessing violent attacks. They now wait in a transit camp with around 1,600 other refugees, hoping for a chance to move to a safer location.

Aziza Mustafa, 62, carries a bullet wound from her escape. Noura Mohamed Yahya, nine months pregnant, lives under a tree, unsure of how she will care for her newborn. These individuals represent the thousands fleeing violence, seeking safety and basic necessities.

Lack of International Aid

The lack of international aid is a significant issue. Most refugees rely on donations from fellow refugees. Non-governmental organizations (NGOs) like Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF) provide some medical help, but resources are limited.

• MSF reports that one in four children in the transit camp is malnourished, a problem worsening with the arrival of new refugees.
• The World Food Program has resumed limited food distributions, but most resources are directed to camps further inland.
• The United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) has only 38% of the funds needed to address the crisis.
• U.S. cuts in foreign aid have significantly contributed to this funding gap.

Harsh Living Conditions

Refugees in Tine live in harsh conditions. They receive little more than plastic tarps for shelter.

Broader Humanitarian Crisis

The situation at the Chad border highlights the broader humanitarian crisis in Sudan. With limited aid and resources, refugees face an uphill battle for survival. The international community's response has been insufficient, leaving many to rely on the kindness of others.