A strategic geographical location and overarching unity among local communities has led to the development of a vibrant economy and enviable social cohesion in El Geneina, the capital of West Darfur. 

By Emadeldin Rijal

El Geneina, the capital of West Darfur exhibits a vibrant pattern of socio-economic development. Known across the region for its natural beauty, El Geneina is divided almost exactly in half by the river Kaja and, according to the 2010 census, is home to a population of some 170,000 people. The town’s chief attractions are its numerous verdant gardens and areas such as Jebel Sultan, where families are often seen enjoying a relaxed outing during the weekends. 

It is hardly unusual then, that El Geneina sees an influx of visitors from the different states of Darfur, especially during the rainy season when the Kaja valley gets flooded.  “Coming to the Kaja valley, during the rainy season, is an experience that most Darfuris desire,” says Mohammed Siddiq, a resident of the El Shatei area in El Geneina, adding that the landscape surrounding the town is one of the most beautiful sights across the region.

While most of Darfur today is characterized by massive population displacements, infrastructural disrepair and a fragile economy, West Darfur, in general, and El Geneina, in particular, is perhaps one of the most stable, vibrant areas in the region. “West Darfur is one of the States that has benefited the most from the momentum for development created by the Doha Document for Peace in Darfur (DDPD),” says Mr. Haider Gali-Koma, Governor, West Darfur. 
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