11 January 2011 - A 4 January joint humanitarian assessment mission to Shangil Tobaya, North Darfur, in which UNAMID took part, reported today that although the situation has stabilized, further aid is needed.
       
New information estimates the number of persons displaced in and around the area following recent clashes to be approximately 30,000. At least 3,000 have gathered outside the UNAMID team site, which has since provided them with protection, water and limited medical assistance.

A girl prepares to draw water from a UNAMID water tank. Photo by Albert Gonzalez Farran

Food distribution continues and, while some cases of malnutrition were confirmed, general health is reportedly stable and under control. UNAMID’s team site clinic treated a daily average of 25-30 patients. A clinic, operated by an international aid group, recently resumed operations, which had been previously suspended due to insecurity.

In spite of the robust Mission’s presence, many displaced persons will still not dare venture far from the peacekeeper’s camp.

Young children are pictured at their new accommodation, right next to the UNAMID camp.

Photo by Albert Gonzalez Farran

The assessment mission was led by the UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs, and included a number of national and international relief agencies. Its findings will be carefully reviewed by national authorities, humanitarian agencies and UNAMID, for a more efficient response.