On 31 December 2016, UNAMID peacekeepers distributed blankets to displaced people residing in three camps in El Geneina, West Darfur. The initiative was aimed at helping the local community cope with winter and prevent illnesses associated with the season.

Some 100 internally displaced persons (IDPs), including people with disabilities and the elderly, living in Krindig I, Krindig II and Abuzar camps benefited from the contribution.

Takako Ugaya, Acting Head of Office, UNAMID Sector West, underlined the importance of such activities. Speaking on the occasion, Ms. Ugaya noted that while UNAMID’s primary mandate is peacekeeping, its personnel frequently conduct humanitarian initiatives as part of efforts to build trust and confidence among the Mission and the people it serves. Furthermore, she commended community leaders for working with the Mission to help register and organize beneficiaries at specific distribution points.

Speaking on behalf of the beneficiaries, Abakar Idris, a community leader from Krindig II IDP camp, thanked UNAMID for the initiative and outlined some of the challenges faced by the IDPs in accessing basic items such as food and clothes. Mr. Idris appealed to UNAMID to continue providing such assistance to the needy across Darfur.

UNAMID peacekeepers intend to conduct a similar initiative for 30 people at the Ardamata camp next week.

In addition to its mandated activities, UNAMID conducts Quick Impact Projects (QIPs) and Community-based, Labour Intensive Projects (CLIPs) across Darfur. These are designed to help local communities build their capacity through income-generating, skills-oriented training and facilitate early peace building across Darfur.