The Diaspora Emergency Action & Coordination (DEMAC) initiative has been awarded an activation fund by the H2H Network. Through the ARISE consortium with H2H members Internews and CDAC, DEMAC will contribute to enhancing communication and engagement with conflict-affected communities. As a member of this consortium, DEMAC will lead a mapping on the Sudanese diaspora humanitarian response to the ongoing crisis in Sudan.

The activation fund

The activation fund, which has been granted until October 2023, will be implemented through the ARISE Consortium, consisting of CDAC Network, DEMAC and Internews.

"We are delighted to work with CDAC and Internews on this vital project, which will ensure that the voices and priorities of the affected population will be heard, and they are informed where to access aid and safety,” states Béatrice Mauconduit, Project Coordinator of DEMAC, "The conflict in Sudan has created immense challenges for humanitarian actors, particularly in terms of accessing reliable information and data on the needs and security risks faced by affected populations."

Mapping the Sudanese Diaspora Response

To address these pressing issues, DEMAC will conduct a Real-Time Review that aims to provide a rapid overview of the Sudanese diaspora's emergency responses in Sudan and neighbouring countries. The review will map the global Sudanese diaspora's response, shedding light on its impact, outreach, and organizational structure. The findings, along with recommendations, will be presented in a comprehensive report and brief snapshot format.

DEMAC's efforts will not only enhance the knowledge and awareness within the humanitarian community but also highlight the significant role played by the global and regional Sudanese diaspora in responding to this humanitarian crisis. Improved coordination between diaspora, local, and institutional humanitarian actors is crucial as the conflict persists and the risk of protracted crisis looms.

What happened in Sudan?

The conflict between the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) and the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) erupted in Khartoum on April 15, 2023. Since then, approximately 1.4 million people have been displaced, including 1 million internally displaced persons (IDPs), and 330,000 individuals have sought refuge in neighbouring countries. The humanitarian situation is dire, with critical shortages of food, water, electricity, and fuel, further exacerbating the already challenging conditions (UN OCHA).

Photo Credits: Unsplash

This project is funded by the H2H Network’s H2H Fund, which is supported by UK aid - from the British people.