11 April 2012 - Nomadic groups from across Darfur on 11 April called for a more coordinated and systematic approach to international assistance to ensure that all communities can benefit.

The proposal came during a forum in El Fasher, North Darfur, organized by the international non-governmental organization Centre for Humanitarian Dialogue. While the Centre has been organizing several workshops for Darfur’s nomadic communities, the event was the first to gather groups from around the region including a significant Nomadic women representation.

Participants of the workshop during a morning session. Photo by Albert González Farran

Conflict prevention and reconciliation, the role of nomads in the peace process, stability and social cohesion in the region, the needs of the population by the humanitarian community and ways to respond to them were among the topics of discussion by 30 representatives from the communities.

UN agencies and UNAMID highlighted their support of Darfur communities including pastoralists and pledged to ensure that the necessary assistance reaches all Darfuris.

“UNAMID is committed to continue to work with you in coordination with the Darfur Regional Authority, the Nomadic Council and the humanitarian community to support your needs,” said Oriano Micaletti, the chief of the Mission’s Humanitarian and Protection Strategy. “We are sure that all together we can move forward from quick impact projects to larger reconciliation, recovery and development programmes,” he added.

Darfur Regional Authority Chairman El Tigani Seisi in a statement said the series of forums were an important step towards rebuilding social cohesion, solidarity and peaceful coexistence among the various constituents of Darfur society.

“We are aware that agencies have been involved in many ways but also there is need to take that process forward and open up dialogue in the peace process,” said Dennis McNamara, the director of the Centre for Humanitarian Dialogue.

The forum was the fourth session of its type organized by the Centre.