In February 2004, the International Rescue Committee deployed an emergency response team to Chad to implement emergency programs for Sudanese refugees fleeing the conflict in Darfur. Ongoing violence, the slow progress of the Sudanese peace process, and the possibility of a severe famine continue to drive people to Chad for assistance. Approximately 200,000 Sudanese refugees reside in eastern Chad, spread out along 600 kilometers of the border.

How We Help

Since our arrival in Chad, we have addressed the basic survival needs of displaced people. Oure Cassoni Camp, created by the IRC in the harsh desert landscape of northeastern Chad in July 2004, has provided primary care, education, environmental health services and child protection interventions to 30,000 Sudanese refugees. We have also provided services to the impoverished local host population of Bahai. The IRC is focused on implementing extracurricular, recreational, social and cultural activities for children, as well as programming to prevent and respond to violence against women.