World Vision shocked and saddened by the looting of food allocated for vulnerable people in South Darfur

South Darfur, Sudan- World Vision is shocked and saddened by the looting of its food distribution sites and nutrition centres in Mershing, South Darfur. We are relieved that no staff or volunteers were harmed in the incidents.

The looters stole nearly US$ 50,000 of World Food Programme food which was to be distributed to 7,800 vulnerable internally displaced persons.

They also took nutrition supplies donated by the United Nations Children's Fund, UNICEF, allocated for the rehabilitation of malnourished children at the Mershing clinic, where World Vision provides free primary healthcare services.

Additionally, two shelters at World Vision nutrition centres were burnt down and two additional warehouses were broken into. Supplies for various donor-funded projects were looted and property destroyed.

World Vision’s primary concern remains the well-being of children. We condemn any attack which targets humanitarian operations or which undermine our efforts to serve hungry children.  

World Vision is working closely with the local authorities and partners to take the necessary additional steps to ensure the safety of our staff and that the resources entrusted to us by our donors reach those who need them most.

World Vision has been working in South Darfur for nearly three decades, and enjoys a good relationship with communities there. Our operations continue across 18 locations in South Darfur. We also operate in East Darfur, Blue Nile and South Kordofan. 

ENDS

For more information please contact:

Lucy Murunga: Communications Manager | +254 721 484 112

Skype: Lucy_Murunga: Lucy_Murunga@wvi.org