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UNAMID DJSR launches community stabilization projects in Shattaya, South Darfur

Photo by Mutaz Munafal, UNAMID.

On 7 May 2017, UNAMID Deputy Joint Special Representative-Protection, Bintou Keita, accompanied by Berhanmeskel Nega, Head of Office, Sector South, Adam El Tayeb, Wali (Governer), South Darfur and government officials, launched a community stabilization project in Shattaya, some 170 kilometres south-west of Nyala.

650 goats, 50 donkeys and agricultural tools were distributed among 386 beneficiaries from vulnerable communities during the opening ceremony. Additionally, a rural court and prosecution office were constructed along with the rehabilitation of a police station and 10 water pumps. The total cost of implementation amounted to 535,313 Sudanese pounds ($ 79,825.99 approximately).

Speaking on the occasion DJSR Keita emphasized that the main objective of the Mission’s community stabilization programme is to create an enabling environment for the protection of civilian populations by facilitating sustainable returns and preventing or resolving communal conflict. She added that the programme also supports community-led, socio-economic development and local governance structures that are conflict-sensitive and sustainable across Darfur.

Furthermore, DJSR Keita noted that the programme aims to cluster projects within targeted communities across Darfur. By doing so, the aim is to maximize impact and create opportunities for synergies with other programmes as well as develop local capacities in guiding and supporting projects which mature over time.

The DJSR also pointed out that this particular livelihood project involves animal restocking and distribution of agricultural tools and seeds to beneficiary households and families of those returning from camps for the displaced, including Kalma and Kass. She explained that Shattaya was selected following assessment missions to potential communities, which were jointly conducted by Sudan DDR Commission, the Community Police Returnees Affairs Commission, UNDP, and UNAMID.

On his part, the Wali, Mr. El Tayeb, commended UNAMID for funding projects that are expected to contribute to stability, reconciliation and peace building in Shattaya.  Additionally, he highlighted improvements in the security situation as well as rule of law institutions in the area.

Abdulrahim Abakar, a beneficiary of the project and a returnee from the Kalma camp for the internally displaced, expressed gratitude for the livelihood opportunities offered by the project. “By growing the seeds provided to me, I will be able to sell produce in the local market at Shattaya and other nearby places. This will enable me to earn a decent income, “stated Mr. Abakar.