Disaster Response: Relief, Recovery,& Resiliency

Dear GlobalGiving Team and our donors,

We are heartbroken to share the devastating update from Zamzam camp in El Fasher, North Darfur, Sudan. Following intense attacks by the Rapid Support Forces (RSF), the camp was largely destroyed and forcibly taken over on April 13, 2025. Over 1000 civilians were reportedly killed, and more than 70,000 families were forcibly displaced. The violence included the systematic destruction of homes, medical clinics, water sources, and marketplaces. The only functioning clinic in the camp—where International Rescue Committee staff served—was shelled, resulting in further loss of life.

Among the victims were one of our own team members in Zamzam camp. Survivors and eyewitnesses reported the use of drones, heavy artillery, and indiscriminate violence against civilians attempting to flee. The humanitarian situation is now catastrophic, with mass displacement to El Fasher, El Malha, and Tawila localities, where resources and safety are incredibly limited.

Amid this tragedy, Darfur Women Network (DWN) immediately mobilized emergency support. Thanks to the $7,500 emergency grant from the Sudan Emergency Fund by GlobalGiving, we launched two emergency hot meal kitchens in El Fasher. These kitchens are currently serving hundreds of displaced survivors daily, including injured individuals who have arrived with nothing—many on bare feet and without food for days.

We are providing Bayrony, bryany - (a traditional meal of wheat or rice with meat), millet with milk, and other basic hot meals to nourish and comfort families traumatized by this ongoing violence. We attempted to open a third kitchen to serve those still fleeing, but the dangerous security situation made it impossible.

Despite the overwhelming hardship and security threats, our team continues to serve with courage and determination. We are blessed to partner with GlobalGiving, whose timely support has allowed us to act swiftly and directly. Without you, we simply would not have been able to provide this lifesaving aid.

GlobalGiving’s promise and commitment have become a lifeline. You have shown the world what it means to stand with grassroots organizations and the communities they serve—not just in principle, but in action. We are honored to be your partner.

With deep gratitude and resilience,
Mastora Bakhiet
Darfur Women Network