Strict Security in Place as World Vision Resumes Operations

16 July – Strict security procedures are in place for World Vision staff in South Darfur after the resumption of operations Monday (15 July) following the recent deaths of two employees.

 “Our staff must remain vigilant where security is concerned as they offer life-saving services to the IDPs (internally displaced people),” said Simon Nyabwengi, World Vision’s National Director for Sudan.

Reports from the United Nations Department of Safety and Security (UNDSS) and other sources indicate threats of criminal activities, including the abduction of humanitarian workers, can be expected.  As a result, UNDSS has advised all international staff of aid agencies to be to be relocated to UN’s “Super Camp” or to stay indoors. They are not allowed currently to visit field programmes. 

This follows the deaths in in Nyala of two World Vision staff on 4 July, as well as seven UN soldiers on 14 July about 90 kilometers away.     

World Vision and other humanitarian organisations have resumed operations in different locations outside Nyala. That work has included distributing more than 100 metric tons of food to more than 20,000 beneficiaries in the Sakley, Dereag and Mosey camps. World Vision also has re-opened its Otash clinic for medical services.

For further information please contact:

Brenda Asiko,

Communications Manager, Sudan (Based in Nairobi)

World Vision International

+254-722-985-306; +254-733-600 688; (Cell)

Email:  brenda_asiko@wvi.org   Skype: brendasiko

Michael Arunga,

Emergency Communications Advisor - Africa,

World Vision International

+254-737-700302 (cell)

Email: Michael_arunga@wvi.org  Skype: michael_arunga

Simon Nyabwengi

Country Program Director

World Vision Sudan

Telephone: +249 91 215 5667 (Cell)

Email: Simon_Nyabwengi@wvi.org

Skype: symon.nyabwengi