Overview

This is for the Purpose of reporting on the activity that took place after July up to August. For clarification, the ERRs are run by volunteers from the community,  mainly made up of  engineers, doctors, nurses, mental health specialists, and community organizers. 

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Background

The ERR’s strength is rooted in the deep Sudanese culture of neighborhood community support. This is also an exercise of citizen participation, a rebirth of civic life, maintaining the social fabric and the creation of a new civil society that celebrates diversity and adopts human rights and democratic practices. This would be essential not just to overcome the potential humanitarian crisis in Sudan, but also for the day after the war ends. The skills learned during this decolonized mutual humanitarian aid will strengthen the ability of this new expanded civil society to imagine and create good governance that is based on transparency, accountability, equality and participation.

Khartoum State’s population is officially estimated at 6,344,348, but the outskirts house millions of uncounted citizens. Since the start of the April 15th war, thousands have fled the City to relocate elsewhere, but until now the majority have opted to stay for various reasons. What enables them to stay is the continued availability of basic services, food and water. With the collapse of the regular economy, markets and supply chains, citizens have managed to create creative alternatives to stay afloat. Electricity, water and telecommunications have been repeatedly fixed and broken. Hospitals and clinics relied on stocks available within the city and donations. Local grocery stores and markets filled demands getting supplies from farmers, warehouses and other states.

Khartoum State consists of 7 localities containing 107 administrative units, 67 emergency response rooms and 14 functioning hospitals.

Number and division of base rooms/administrative units in each locality:

1. Ombada emergency room: 3 sectors Al-Amir (4 rooms), Al-Baqa’a (10 rooms), Al-Salam (2 rooms) overall 16 rooms and 2 functioning hospitals Ombada Hospital and Rajhi hospital.
2. Karari emergency response room: one central room with 10 rooms and 4 hospitals
3. Bahri emergency response room: one central room divided into offices (medical, service, nutrition, feminist, statistics)
4. Khartoum emergency response room: 7 rooms divided into administrative units (Arkaweet and Al-Mamoura/ Taif and Riyadh/ Al-Shajara/ Jabra/ Al-Juraif West) in basic rooms that are organized and in administrative units that are out of service due to the security situation.
5. Sharg Al Nile Emergency Response Room: the medical offices supervises health centers in different administrative units (Al-Osilat, Um Douban, Al-Ailafoun, Soba Sharq, Al-Marabea, Sheikh Al-Amin) and two hospitals (Alban Jaded and Umdawwanban) and the missing persons office, humanitarian and nutritional cases (neighborhood kitchens), services (electricity), statistics (travel information).
6. Omdurman emergency response room: It is divided into 3 main rooms (Old Omdurman 4 rooms – Al Arbaeen 2 rooms – Omdurman South 4 rooms) with a total of 10 emergency response rooms in Omdurman localities .
7. Jabal Awliya emergency response room: 

The Fund’s Overall Impact

The Khartoum State Emergency Response Rooms (ERRs), primarily led by volunteers from the community, have made a profound impact on the lives of residents in Khartoum State. These dedicated individuals, comprising engineers, doctors, nurses, mental health specialists, and organizers, have worked tirelessly to address the challenges arising from conflict and displacement in the region. Here is an overview of the significant impacts across key areas:

1- Sustaining Healthcare Services: The ERRs have played a pivotal role in sustaining healthcare services. This includes ensuring access to medical care, providing logistical support to hospitals and clinics, supplying medicines and medical equipment, and maintaining essential facilities like hospitals and health centers. The efforts of medical professionals and volunteers have led to improved patient care, extended reach to underserved areas, and enhanced overall efficiency in healthcare delivery.

2- Access to Medicines and Medical Supplies: The ERRs have actively contributed to the healthcare sector by supplying essential medicines, medical solutions, and equipment to various health centers. This has ensured that these centers have a consistent supply of pharmaceuticals and medical supplies, even in challenging circumstances. The ERRs’ support has been instrumental in maintaining critical medical services.

3- Infrastructure Maintenance: The maintenance and rehabilitation of healthcare facilities, including air conditioning systems and infrastructure, have been carried out by the ERRs. This proactive approach has created a conducive environment for patients and medical staff, preserving the infrastructure for the long-term sustainability of healthcare services.

4- Nutrition and Support for Healthcare Workers: The ERRs have recognized the importance of proper nutrition for patients and healthcare workers. They have provided funding and essential supplies to hospital and health center kitchens, ensuring that meals are readily available to those in need. This comprehensive approach also extends to dedicated medical staff who receive support to ease their financial burden.

5- Support for Medical Staff: The ERRs have made a significant impact by supporting medical staff through various means. Financial contributions to cover the costs of relocating medical professionals and providing essential supplies demonstrate the commitment to healthcare workers’ well-being and dedication to their essential work.

6- Women’s Support: The ERRs have shown a commitment to addressing the unique needs of women in the community. They have provided packages related to the sexual assault protocol, sanitary pads, and maternity bags, emphasizing the importance of women’s health and safety.

7- Community Resilience: Beyond the immediate impact on healthcare, the ERRs have played a crucial role in building community resilience. By involving volunteers from diverse backgrounds and engaging in citizen participation, they have fostered a spirit of cooperation, unity, and civic engagement. This, in turn, contributes to the creation of a new civil society that celebrates diversity, adopts human rights, and practices democratic principles.

Challenges

• The most prominent challenge highlighted in  the insufficiency of funds to cover the emerging challenges and needs on the ground. As the influx of displaced individuals increases, the existing funding falls short of addressing the growing demands, putting additional strain on the ERRs’ resources.
• Providing essential supplies, including food and medical items, in conflict-affected areas can pose logistical challenges. Ensuring the continuous availability of these supplies requires careful planning and execution.
•  Maintaining essential services, including electricity, water, and telecommunications, has been a challenge due to the ongoing conflict. This requires regular repairs and support to keep these services operational.
• Insecurity in certain areas has led to the looting of healthcare facilities, causing them to close. This not only impacts the availability of medical services but also poses a risk to the safety and well-being of the affected communities.
• The security situation in some areas has hindered the ability to provide support effectively. It has led to the suspension of certain activities, such as reporting from Omdurman South, due to heavy clashes, which have limited access to some affected areas.

Lessons Learned & Recommendations

• Think about how to establish a sustainable situation. Where there is dependence on grants to run with intermittent support.
• Continuously visiting the shelters for field assessments to update the inventory regularly and monitoring the provision of essential supplies. This includes documenting daily needs, whether they are related to food, medical, or the requirements of women and children. Additionally, creating a conducive environment for the displaced individuals within the shelters through maintenance and provisioning.
• seeking funding for larger projects or establishing direct partnerships with organizations for substantial projects, bypassing financial constraints associated with standard funding channels.
• We have recognized the importance of sustainability and continuous field assessments. They have highlighted the need to seek funding for larger projects and establish direct partnerships with organizations to overcome financial constraints.

Khartoum Locality

Al-Jerif West Emergency Room: 

A grant of 274,400 pounds has been received. It will be spent in the common kitchen project from July 17, 2023 AD to July 21, 2023.

The work was done in the fifth and castle kitchens in two of Al-Juraif’s lanes. The shared kitchen feeds 100 families daily. As much as in that period feeding 600 – 700 families, The neighborhood kitchen feeds the various segments of society that are vulnerable to food shortages. It provides a daily meal to needy families. And for pregnant women and those with chronic diseases such as diabetes, Reform the kitchen as a gathering point for activities such as agricultural school.

Residents of the Al-Juraif region, including owners, landlords and foreigners (South Sudan and Ethiopia). In addition to the home guards, 600 to 700 families from throughout the kitchen work period, the kitchen benefits from the gathering of residents in the kitchen to hold other activities, take advantage of the kitchen to become a distribution point for any aids and attract additional volunteers.

Totti emergency room

Totti continued to suffer from the first moment of the war due to the scarcity of food supplies and the difficulty in obtaining them due to its geographical position, which negatively contributed to the insane rise of the existing materials. Food supplies helped reduce the living conditions of a small number of families who were directly affected by the war. 250 families lost their source of livelihood.

Search for additional sources to make a comprehensive coverage of those affected, Because the value of support needs to be added due to the presence of large numbers of others that need direct support

Jabra Emergency Room

Direct support for needy families by transferring the balance or dealing in your bank and trying to bring food supplies to support the largest number of families, 

The needy families in the various squares of Jabra, and their number reached 7 families. Distribution of funds to the needy families in order to purchase food supplies. Material sums were distributed to 16 families, 10 thousand pounds were distributed to each family.

Al Sahafa emergency room:

The grant was used to purchase gasoline (8 gallons) on July 27 to power the generator for Al-Sahafa West Health Center, the center’s activities include: pharmacy, laboratory, obstetrics and gynecology, general surgery, minor surgery, dentistry, children. The center provides all medical services for free, The room is currently out of work due to the security situation, The center provided medical services to the people of the area, as this service was scarce due to the war. He also provided it for free, as the people of the surrounding areas are facing catastrophic financial conditions as a result of the war.

Residents of the regions: Al-Sahafa, Al-Ashra, Extension of the third degree, Al-Nuzha, Jabra, Al-Daim. General Doctor / laboratory 1971 people Surgery / operation 300 people Dental 30 people Pharmacy 2000 people Obstetrics and gynecology 127 people Children 130 people Deaths 9 people Births 2 people Total 4569 people Average daily cases 86 people, The center was looted and was closed due to the insecure situation.

Alshijara emergency room:

Activities carried out: Establishing a health center that provides health and treatment services for free in the region on 4/5/2023 until now, operating a water station in the region on 5/6/2023 until now, The work of a shared kitchen serving breakfast for the area on 5/28/2023 was suspended on 6/20/023.

Omdurman Locality

Emergency Room in Old Omdurman:

In the Old Omdurman area, activities increased, and the situation saw various developments. Some individuals were received in homes, but the majority were accommodated in centers. Initially, there were 6 shelters, and the number increased to 16 shelters, the items that were provided were (Sacks of wheat flour, a staple for making bread and other baked goods, bags of lentils, a type of legume used in various dishes, Bottles or containers of cooking oil, cans or containers of tomato sauce, a common ingredient in many recipes, bags of barley, a cereal grain used in cooking and brewing, packages of soap, which are essential for personal hygiene, packages or containers of tea leaves or tea bags used for making tea.

Support were disbursed to the shelters.

The First Center – Rose Garden: Provided essential supplies to 5 families with a total of 44 individuals, provided items included sacks of flour, lentils, oil, tomato sauce, barley, soap, and tea. The Second Center – Al-Shati School: Provided essential supplies to 21 families with a total of 115 individuals, provided items were similar to those in the first center, the Third Center – Sixth School: Provided essential supplies to 26 families with a total of 175 individuals. provided items were similar to the previous two centers. the Fourth Center – Eighth Harat School for Boys: Provided essential supplies to 15 families with a total of 92 individuals, provided items were similar to the previous centers. the Fifth Center – The Fortieth School: Provided supplies to 72 families with a total of 396 individuals, the Sixth Center – School 48: Provided supplies to 6 families with a total of 33 individuals.

The Activities that was implemented by Old Omdurman ERR resulted in Effective contribution includes providing essential goods and meals to a specified number of war-affected individuals due to displacement, ensuring the continuity of food supplies in shelters, and the beneficiaries were the Residents of the shelters include 145 families totaling 855 individuals.

Important Note: Omdurman South didn’t was unable to report due to the heavy clashes in the area  

Financial support is essential for sustaining life in the shelters. We require additional support to improve the conditions in the centers, especially since they accommodate women and children who need psychological support and programs to mitigate the effects of war and displacement.

Bahri Locality

In Bahri locality, a significant humanitarian effort has been undertaken. Over 20 families from various areas have been successfully evacuated, ensuring their safety during challenging times. Additionally, to support the medical staff at Martyrs’ Hospital, a dedicated kitchen has been established, facilitating their essential work.

A total of 131 families have received vital support, including both in-kind and provisioning materials. Some families have also benefited from cash assistance, providing them with the flexibility to address their unique needs. Furthermore, the establishment of new kitchens in Al-Mazad, Umm Al-Qura, and Dardoug demonstrates a commitment to addressing the immediate needs of the residents in these areas.

These impactful initiatives were executed on August 11, 2023, underscoring the dedication and swift response of the local chambers. Increased coordination among these chambers has become a driving force for stability within the locality. A systematic approach to prioritizing needs, categorized as high or medium priority, ensures that every concern is addressed comprehensively.

A significant aspect of this humanitarian effort involves the training of volunteer staff by the ERR. This not only empowers the community but also fosters a spirit of cooperation and unity. Moreover, the formation of new partnerships expands the capacity to undertake more substantial and higher-quality projects in the future.

One of the most noteworthy outcomes has been the restoration of a sense of stability and reassurance within the neighborhoods. This has been achieved through the provision of essential supplies, access to healthcare, and improvements in living conditions. The impact on the people in the region cannot be understated, as they have directly experienced the positive changes brought about by these initiatives.

Ultimately, the true beneficiaries are the members of the community within Bahri locality. In terms of healthcare, approximately 100 individuals have received vital pharmaceutical services. Additionally, 482 individuals have been provided with provisioning materials, easing their daily struggles.

While there were initial challenges, such as the lack of detailed reports on the specific needs, it is encouraging to note that these issues have been fully resolved. Going forward, the focus will be on sustaining and enhancing the support provided, with a particular emphasis on ensuring a steady supply of essential food and medication within the locality. The commitment to meeting all the needs of the local residents remains unwavering, and the spirit of community resilience shines brightly in Bahri locality.

Karari Locality

The emergency support plan in Khartoum State is built upon three primary activities. Firstly, it involves providing essential food support to families in two specific administrative units. Additionally, it extends its reach to cater to the nutritional needs of a hospital kitchen. Secondly, it encompasses a comprehensive program designed to facilitate the relocation of displaced individuals from conflict-ridden areas within and outside the state. It’s crucial to note that the plan underwent a significant 60% change due to evolving on-ground circumstances. The most prominent among these changes was the sudden influx of individuals from conflict zones, necessitating the urgent adaptation of the plan to address this emergency.

Implemented Activities:

High-Voltage Electrical Line Repair: In the Karrí Central Housing Unit, a crucial repair operation was executed within a span of three days, concluding on 22/8/2023. The objective of this operation was to mend a high-voltage electrical line, specifically for the housing unit in Karrí Central. Notably, a portion of the expenses for excavation and equipment preparation for the electrical transformer was absorbed by the emergency room.

Emergency Food Supply for New Shelter Center: In Thawra District, a new shelter center emerged, necessitating immediate action. Over a period of two days, starting on 29/8/2023, provisions were made to fulfill the urgent dietary requirements of those residing in this newly established shelter center. This center was specifically designated to accommodate individuals displaced by conflict in the nearby area of Imbada, A similar operation was carried out in the eastern part of the city, specifically in the Al-Rawdah neighborhood. Over two days, starting on 28/8/2023, provisions were delivered to meet the pressing nutritional needs of individuals seeking refuge at the Khadeer shelter center. This center was designated to host displaced persons from the Qama’ir and Khadeer areas of Old Omdurman.

Bulk Purchase, Packaging, and Distribution of Food Supplies: Extending over seven days and concluding on 9/9/2023, a substantial operation was initiated in the western part of the city. This operation involved the wholesale procurement of food items, the establishment of a packaging facility, and the distribution of 130 food packages to as many families. Each package included six essential food items, addressing immediate nutritional requirements.

Establishment of a Kitchen at Balak Children’s Hospital: Over a span of six days, starting on 6/9/2023, a kitchen facility was set up within the Balak Children’s Hospital. This facility was dedicated to providing meals to patients, accompanying mothers, medical staff, and residents in the vicinity of the hospital, thus extending support in times of need.

Field Visits to Shelter Centers: A significant endeavor was undertaken involving field visits to all 16 shelter centers scattered across the locality. These visits were carried out by representatives from the Khartoum Emergency Room offices to establish and maintain continuous communication between the emergency room and the shelter centers, during the field visits, our representatives conducted assessments of the conditions and needs within each shelter center. This involved evaluating the living conditions, the availability of essential services such as food, water, and electricity, and assessing the overall well-being of the individuals residing in these centers. 

The field visits provided an opportunity for individuals at the shelter centers to directly communicate their concerns, feedback, and specific needs to our representatives. This direct feedback mechanism is invaluable in tailoring our support to address the unique requirements of each center.

Jabel Awlia Locality

Distribution of rations to the staff at Jebel Awlia Hospital, which amounted to a total of 1,820,000 Sudanese Pounds. 

Distribution Process: The distribution of rations was successfully completed on September 4, 2023. It was executed as per the guidelines set by the Programs Committee, ensuring that every eligible staff member received their entitled share.

Future Distribution Approach: In upcoming distributions, the allocation of funds will be based on the number of working hours for each individual. This approach aims to provide a fair and equitable distribution of resources among the dedicated staff.

Impact Assessment: The support provided to the staff at Jebel Awlia Hospital has had a profound impact on several key areas:

1. Improved Patient Services: The support has significantly enhanced the quality of services provided to the local residents, resulting in better healthcare outcomes for the community.
2. Boosted Staff Morale: This initiative has uplifted the spirits of the hospital staff, particularly the medical personnel, motivating them to deliver their best in patient care.
3. Enhanced Overall Efficiency: There has been a noticeable increase in the activity levels across all departments of the hospital, contributing to its overall efficiency.
4. Extended Reach: The positive changes have not only benefited the residents of Jabal Aulia but have also had a ripple effect on the neighboring regions, covering a wide geographical area spanning three states.

Beneficiaries: The primary beneficiaries of this support are the residents of the Jabal Aulia region, especially in light of the ongoing displacement in the Khartoum State due to the national conflict. The direct impact has been felt by approximately 119 individuals, while an indirect positive effect has been observed in approximately 300 cases daily.

Financial Support in Challenging Times: Considering the challenging circumstances, with hospital staff not receiving their salaries from government authorities for over five months, we strongly believe that increasing financial support is crucial. Additionally, there is a pressing need for adequate medical supplies and equipment to meet the healthcare demands effectively.

East Nile Locality

During the past period, the ERR has undertaken several important activities to 

1- Ensure the continuity of service in hospitals and health centers. 

A- Logistic Support:

East Nile ERR has been actively involved in providing logistic support to hospitals and health centers. This support includes the provision of fuel and all necessary operational supplies. Additionally, oxygen cylinders and gas barrels were transported to ensure the continuous operation of medical equipment, even during power outages. This was crucial for conducting surgeries and cesarean sections without interruption. Furthermore, the ERR also supplied water tanks to a kidney dialysis center, ensuring that it could operate effectively and serve up to 40 kidney patients for a week.

B- Provision of Medicines and Medical Equipment:

East Nile  ERR has actively contributed to the healthcare sector by supplying medicines and medical solutions to various health centers. This support has been critical in ensuring that these centers have an adequate stock of essential pharmaceuticals and medical supplies. Additionally, the ERR has provided small surgical equipment and laboratory supplies, further enhancing the capacity of these health centers to provide comprehensive healthcare services.

C- Facility Maintenance:

East Nile ERR has taken proactive steps to ensure the proper functioning of healthcare facilities. One notable effort is the maintenance of air conditioning systems at the New Banj Hospital. This maintenance work is essential to create a comfortable and conducive environment for patients and medical staff. Additionally, the ERR has initiated a project aimed at the maintenance and rehabilitation of hospital facilities. This project is crucial in preserving the infrastructure and ensuring the long-term sustainability of healthcare services.

D- Kitchen Funding and Supplies:

In a commendable initiative, the ERR has provided funding and essential supplies to hospital and health center kitchens. This support enables these facilities to prepare and serve meals to patients and dedicated volunteers. Furthermore, meals have been extended to the dedicated medical and staff teams working tirelessly to deliver healthcare services. This comprehensive approach ensures that not only medical care but also proper nutrition is accessible to those in need, contributing to their overall well-being.

E- Supporting the Costs of Medical Staff Relocation:

The ERR has displayed its commitment to supporting the healthcare workforce by making a financial contribution to cover the costs of relocating certain medical staff. This contribution is aimed at easing the financial burden on these dedicated professionals, ensuring that they can continue their essential work without undue financial stress.

2- Provision of Women’s Office Needs:

In a laudable effort to address the unique needs of women, the ERR has provided packages related to the sexual assault protocol. These packages are essential in offering support and care to survivors of sexual assault, emphasizing the ERR’s dedication to women’s well-being and safety. Additionally, the ERR has taken steps to cater to women’s health needs by providing sanitary pads and maternity bags. This comprehensive approach underscores the ERR’s commitment to promoting women’s health and ensuring their access to necessary resources for their overall well-being.