The Humanitarian Coordinator, Alain Noudehou, led a high-level delegation of donors, heads of humanitarian agencies and partners to Leer in the Unity region of South Sudan to see firsthand the plight of the 90,000 people living in the area.

The delegation met with the Governor of Leer, community leaders and aid agencies who are currently assisting tens of thousands of people across the region.

Leer was one of two counties affected by famine in 2017. Although the famine was stopped due to intensive humanitarian intervention, the situation remains fragile with about 85% of the population predicted to reach crisis and emergency food insecurity conditions (IPC Phases 3 and 4) by the end of April.

“Due to seasonal time pressure, we need early funding now to reach millions of people with multi-sectoral assistance during the dry season through road transport and prepositioning of life-saving aid supplies. These same activities will be many times more costly if done by air transport during the rainy season,” said Alain Noudehou.

A recent report analyzing food security in the conflict-affected country projected that more than seven million people - almost two-thirds of the population of South Sudan - could become severely food insecure between May and July without sustained humanitarian assistance and access.

With the conflict in South Sudan now in its fifth year, civilians across the country are continuing to suffer from hunger, disease and displacement. Nearly 4.3 million people – one in three South Sudanese – have been displaced, including more than 1.8 million who are internally displaced and about 2.5 million who are in neighbouring countries.

“Once again, I strongly urge all parties to the conflict to stop the fighting and to ensure that humanitarian agencies are given free, safe and unhindered access to all areas of South Sudan, and for all bureaucratic impediments to be removed,” said Alain Noudehou.

Highlights

• UNICEF and partners supported the release of 311 children (87 girls) associated with armed groups in Yambio, Western Equatoria state – the first release by any armed group in South Sudan in almost three years. These children are being supported to reintegrate back to their communities. This is the first phase of a process that is expected to see 700 children released from armed groups and forces in Yambio in the coming months.

• South Sudan declared the end of its longest and largest cholera outbreak, which began in June 2016, with no new cases of cholera reported in over seven weeks. UNICEF and partners contributed to the efforts to overcome this outbreak through a range of prevention and response activities, including treating cholera patients and promoting good hygiene practices.

• The latest Integrated Food Security Phase Classification (IPC) analysis was released in late February, and confirmed that in the absence of all forms of humanitarian assistance, up to 6.3 million people (57 per cent of the population) would be in Crisis (IPC phase 3) or Emergency (IPC phase 4) from February to April, including 50,000 people in hard-to-reach areas showing catastrophe (IPC Phase 5) conditions.

Situation Overview & Humanitarian Needs

The longest and largest cholera outbreak was declared at an end, with no new cases of cholera reported in over seven weeks. The outbreak was first declared on 18 June 2016 and spread to many parts of the country, including Juba. By the time the last confirmed cholera case was discharged in December 2017, 20,438 cholera cases and 436 deaths had been reported. With the approaching rainy season, new cholera cases are likely to be reported.

After extensive negotiations with state and local authorities and local groups, UNICEF and partners supported the successful release of a total of 311 children associated with armed groups, including 87 girls, the largest number released in the country in nearly three years. The release was marked by a ceremony in Yambio, in Western Equatoria state, where the children were formally disarmed and provided with civilian clothes. This is the first phase of a process that is expected to see 700 children released from armed groups and forces in Yambio in the coming months.

The IPC food security update in late February confirmed that the food insecurity and nutrition situation in South Sudan remains of grave concern and is projected to significantly deteriorate as the lean season sets in.

In the absence of all forms of humanitarian assistance, some 6.3 million people (57 per cent of the population) are facing IPC Phase 3 (Crisis) and IPC Phase 4 (Emergency) levels of food insecurity in February to April.

This figure is projected to rise to 7.1 million people (65 per cent of the population) in May to July.
Out of this food insecure population, 50,000 people are estimated to be in IPC Phase 5 February to April, and this figure is expected to rise to 155,000 people in May to July.

These are, and will be, the highest levels of food insecurity ever experienced in South Sudan, with virtually every community in the country in need of urgent humanitarian assistance. The depletion of food stocks and the early onset of the lean season due to conflict-related displacement and agricultural disruption are expected to exacerbate this outlook, and the poor nutrition situation is expected to deteriorate greatly as the lean season sets in around May/June. The risk of widespread famine (IPC Phase 5) remains extremely high in a worst-case scenario, especially with conflict-related restrictions to population movement and lack of sustained humanitarian assistance due to access constraints.

Highlights

• To scale up its response to conflict induced displacement, UNICEF Ethiopia has finalized a comprehensive, multi-sectoral-strategy to meet the immediate lifesaving needs of 500,000 internally displaced persons (IDPs) in the Oromia and Somali regions.

• UNICEF provided access to safe water to 176,000 conflict-affected IDPs in densely populated IDP sites in East and West Hararghe and Bale zones in Oromia region.

• In advance of the launch of the Ethiopian Humanitarian and Disaster Resilience Plan, UNOCHA has released Immediate Humanitarian Funding Priorities for 2018 amounting to US$242 million to address critical gaps in the humanitarian response. UNICEF’s 2018 humanitarian funding gap is US$86.5 million.

• Recurrent attacks on the South Sudanese border continue to pose security threats to the delivery of services on bordering woredas (districts) in Ethiopia in the Nuer and Anuak zones.

SITUATION IN NUMBERS

7.9 million * People in need of relief food/cash

350,111 * Children in need of treatment for severe acute malnutrition

2.2 million * School-aged children, including adolescents, in need of emergency school feeding and learning material assistance

1.7 million ** Internally displaced people in Ethiopia (64 per cent displaced due to conflict)

901,235 *** Registered refugees and asylum seekers in Ethiopia.

Situation Overview and Humanitarian Needs

Current weather forecasts show that there is a high probability that the spring gu/genna rains will again be erratic or underperform in southern and southeastern Ethiopia leading to continued food insecurity and water shortages. If the rains fail, it will be the fourth consecutive year of inadequate rains in some of these areas. Global weather forecasts have identified Ethiopia as one of four countries at highest risk of La Niña, which will further extend the dry season. An estimated 7.9million people will need food and cash assistance in 2018. Malnutrition, disease outbreaks and internal displacement, aggravated by drought and conflict, are expected to remain risks throughout 2018.

Immediate life-saving assistance for conflict displaced populations around the border areas of Somali and Oromia regions needs to be urgently scaled up while partners participate in Government-led efforts to find durable solutions which include voluntary returns and resettlement or integration of IDPs into host communities.

Since January 2018, 7,895 refugees have arrived in Ethiopia. Refugees came mainly from South Sudan (5,960) and Eritrea (1,639), bringing the total number of refugees in Ethiopia to 901,235.

The Ethiopia Humanitarian Country Team (EHCT) and the National Disaster Risk Management Commission (NDRMC), in advance of the 2018 Humanitarian and Disaster Resilience Plan (HDRP), have launched an Immediate Humanitarian Funding Priority document requesting US$242.2 million for the next six months. The priorities identified include emergency education for 125,000 conflict-affected IDP children, continued outreach through Mobile Health and Nutrition Teams (MHNTs), measles vaccinations, support for Mobile Protection Teams, and water trucking and hygiene and sanitation efforts to prevent disease outbreaks.

On 15 February, Ethiopia’s Prime Minister Hailemariam Desalegn resigned. Immediately thereafter, the Government declared a six-month nationwide State of Emergency which was ratified by Parliament on 2 March as required by the constitution. A contingency plan to mitigate the impact of civil unrest on the delivery of development and humanitarian assistance has been finalized by UNICEF for four months.

Representatives of the Dinka Ngok and Misseriya tribes have signed a community peace agreement for peaceful coexistence on Monday. More than 150 delegates from both tribes attended the conference in the disputed Abyei Administrative Area, the traditional homeland of the Dinka Ngok, who have with strong ties with the South Sudanese Dinka tribe.

The three-day conference was supported by the International Organisation for Migration (IOM), the United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) and the UN Interim Security Force in Abyei (UNISFA).

Herders of the Misseriya, a northern Arab tribe, traverse oil-producing Abyei and other Sudan-South Sudan border areas with their cattle in search of water and pasture in the dry season and to trade goods.

The region witnessed a significant upsurge in cases of cattle rustling, hijacks, and other robberies in mid-2017. In February, Radio Dabanga reported that more than 46 people including women from the Misseriya and Dinka tribes were killed and 10,850 head of cattle, sheep, and goats stolen in three separate clashes between the Misseriya and armed groups from South Sudan at El Darab, Um Geroun, and Um Kadma areas in El Dibab locality in West Kordofan.

There is no government or police force in the area and a UN peacekeeping mission, UNISFA, is entrusted with overseeing demilitarisation and maintaining security in the area.

Herders

In December last year, the Misseriya committee in Abyei issued a decree that prohibits herders from the Misseriya tribe from crossing with their cows to areas of the Dinka Ngok before the start of the pastoral paths conference.

Omda Najmeldin, the head of the joint court and head of the Misseriya native administration, told Radio Dabanga at the time that his tribe planned to pay ‘blood money’ to the Dinka Ngok community before the end of December.

“The decision to prevent the passage of Misseriya herders will maintain the safety of the members of both Dinka and Misseriya tribes.”

The Joint Community Peace Committee’s (JCPC), a body of community leaders from both sides and supported by the UN and NGOs is mandated to address conflict drivers, such as cattle raids, disputes in the common market, grazing areas for cattle and access to water.

At the conference, Bakhtan Eldgum, a representative of the Misseriya community said: “Since we began the conferences in 2016, we have become one family. I ask all people to maintain peace.”

Afaf Arop, a women leader from the Ngok Dinka community said: “These conferences have helped us a lot. We [the Dinka Ngok and Misseriya] can interact without fear”.

Regional Mixed Migration Secretariat (RMMS ) summary for January 2018 covering mixed migration events, trends and data for Djibouti, Eritrea, South Sudan, Sudan, Ethiopia, Kenya, Uganda, Somalia / Somaliland and Yemen.

Country Profiles

Djibouti

Refugees & asylum seekers:
According to UNHCR , Djibouti had approximately 26,915 refugees and asylum seekers by the end of December 2017 most of whom were from Somalia and Ethiopia. A majority of these have settled at Ali Addeh camp with the camp holding 15,836 refugees and asylum seekers repre-senting 59% of total refugee and asylum seeker population in the country.

Policy dialogue:

In January, the government of Djibouti undertook awareness - raising exercises in the country aimed at sensitizing various actors on the rights of the refugees under the new Refugee Law that came into effect in December 2017. Actors targeted during this awareness raising session include private sector businesses, host communities and refugees alike, as well as relevant line ministries. Similarly, the Ministry of Education and Vocational Training signed an agreement with the Lutheran World Federation (LWF) to enable LWF continue supporting edu-cational programs therefore allowing for a smooth transition to the Ministry after the end of the current school year. With regards to refugee health, the Ministry of Health and UNHCR signed an agreement for the inclusion of refugees in national health systems.

UNMISS “Protection of Civilians” (PoC) Sites

As of 08 March 2018, a total of number of civilians seeking safety in six Protection of Civilians (PoC) sites located on UNMISS bases is 203,980 including 114,499 in Bentiu, 24,417 in Malakal, 38,113 in Juba UN House, 2,296 in Bor, and 147 in UNMISS base and 24,508 in the area adjacent to UNMISS in Wau.

La Conférence,

1. EXHORTE les parties malgaches à privilégier le consensus en vue de créer les conditions d’un climat politique apaisé pour la tenue d’élections libres, transparentes et crédibles, dans le strict respect des dispositions de la Constitution malgache. À cet égard, la Conférence FÉLICITE le Président de la Commission pour ses efforts visant à accompagner les parties malgaches dans la consolidation de la démocratie et de l’État de droit et ENCOURAGE son Haut Représentant à poursuivre et à intensifier son interaction avec l’ensemble des parties prenantes à Madagascar;

2. PREND NOTE du lancement par la Commission, en étroite collaboration avec l’Autorité intergouvernementale pour le développement (IGAD), à Khartoum, du 8 au 10 octobre 2017, du processus consultatif en vue de l'élaboration d'une stratégie régionale pour la paix et la sécurité dans la Corne de l'Afrique, conformément à la décision Assembly/AU/Dec. 472(XX), adoptée en janvier 2013, dans laquelle la Conférence a réitéré son soutien à une approche régionale et globale, afin de relever les défis à la paix, à la sécurité et à la stabilité dans la Corne de l’Afrique, en appui à l’IGAD;

3. SE FÉLICITE de la signature, le 21 décembre 2017, par les parties prenantes sud-soudanaises d’un Accord pour la cessation des hostilités, la protection des civils et l’accès humanitaire, et FÉLICITE l’IGAD pour son rôle dirigeant dans le Forum de Revitalisation de haut Niveau, qui représente une unique opportunité en vue de la mise en œuvre de l’Accord pour la résolution du conflit au Soudan du Sud, dans le cadre du communiqué de la 720e réunion du CPS tenue, au niveau ministériel, à New York, le 20 septembre 2017. La Conférence FÉLICITE l’IGAD et le Président de la Commission pour leurs efforts qui ont permis de parvenir à ces résultats sur la voie de la recherche d’une solution durable au conflit qui continue de dévaster le Soudan du Sud. La Conférence EXPRIME SA PROFONDE PRÉOCCUPATION face aux violations répétées de l’Accord par les parties, entrainant ainsi une nouvelle détérioration de la situation humanitaire déjà catastrophique née du conflit en cours, et EXHORTE toutes les factions belligérantes à mettre fin immédiatement à toutes les actions militaires et à respecter scrupuleusement leurs engagements, tels que contenus dans l’Accord du 21 décembre 2017. La Conférence FÉLICITE le Haut Représentant de l'UA pour le Soudan du Sud, S.E. Alpha Oumar Konare, ancien Président du Mali et le Président de la Commission conjointe de suivi et d'évaluation [JMEC], S.E. Festus Mogae, ancien Président du Botswana, pour leurs efforts collectifs en vue de la mise en œuvre de l'ARCSS. La Conférence SE FÉLICITE des efforts déployés par les Présidents Yoweri K. Museveni d’Ouganda et Abdel Fattah el Sisi d’Égypte qui ont conduit à la Déclaration du Caire et l’Accord d’Entebbe visant à réunifier le Mouvement de libération du peuple du Soudan (SPLM). Par ailleurs, la Conférence FÉLICITE le Gouvernement d’unité nationale de transition (ToGNU) pour son acceptation formelle du Protocole d’accord créant la Cour hybride du Soudan du Sud. La Conférence SE FÉLICITE du renforcement de la coordination des efforts entre l’IGAD, l’UA et les Nations unies;

4. NOTE AVEC SATISFACTION la diminution significative des hostilités entre le Gouvernement du Soudan et les forces rebelles au Darfour et FÉLICITE le Gouvernement du Soudan d’avoir prorogé le cessez-le-feu unilatéral, tel qu’annoncé le 8 octobre 2017 et ENCOURAGE les mouvements armées à faire preuve de la même ouverture en vue de maintenir la paix et la stabilité au Darfour. La Conférence FÉLICITE l’Opération hybride Nations unies-UA au Darfur (MINUAD) pour les progrès accomplis dans la première phase de l'exercice de reconfiguration et l'EXHORTE à assurer le parachèvement de la deuxième phase en juin 2018, conformément au calendrier défini par les communiqués du CPS ainsi que les résolutions du Conseil de sécurité des Nations unies pertinents. À cet égard, la Conférence SOULIGNE LA NÉCESSITÉ de traduire dans le mandat révisé de la MINUAD la nouvelle configuration au Darfour, afin d’assurer que les priorités de la Mission sont harmonisées avec les réalités sur le terrain, y compris le soutien nécessaire à la reconstruction et à la stabilisation;

5. SALUE le rapprochement entre les Républiques du Soudan du Sud et du Soudan, conformément à l’Accord de coopération de 2012, comme une nouvelle étape vers l’objectif de réaliser deux États vivant en paix l’un avec l’autre. La Conférence ENCOURAGE le Soudan et le Soudan du Sud à renforcer leur coopération en vue de renforcer les relations de bon voisinage et lutter contre l'insécurité aux frontières. La Conférence APPELLE à un engagement plus fort de toutes les parties pour le règlement des questions relatives aux deux Régions du Nil bleu et du Kordofan méridional, ainsi qu’à Abyei.

6. FÉLICITE le Gouvernement fédéral de Somalie (FGS) et toutes les parties prenantes somaliennes pour les avancées constantes réalisées en vue de la consolidation de la paix, de la stabilité et réconciliation en Somalie, avec le soutien de la Mission de l’Union africaine en Somalie (AMISOM) et des partenaires. La Conférence SE FELICITE, EN OUTRE, des efforts déployés en faveur de la réconciliation en vue de renforcer les relations de travail entre le Gouvernement fédéral de Somalie (FGS) et ses États membres fédéraux (FMS), ce qui est de bon augure pour la consolidation de la paix et de la stabilité en Somalie. De ce fait, la Conférence SALUE les visites effectuées par S.E. Monsieur Mohamed Abdullahi Mohamed Farmaajo, Président de la Somalie, dans les régions du centre et du nord de Galmudug et de Puntland pour des consultations avec les parties prenantes dans ces domaines. La Conférence RÉAFFIRME SON PLEIN SOUTIEN au FGS, ainsi que sa détermination à ne ménager aucun effort en vue de réaliser durablement la paix, la sécurité et la réconciliation en Somalie. La Conférence SE FÉLICITE des progrès accomplis, à ce jour, dans la lutte contre le groupe terroriste al-Shabaab, grâce aux efforts conjoints déployés par l’AMISOM et les Forces nationales de sécurité somaliennes (SNSF). À cet égard, la Conférence ENCOURAGE l’AMISOM à rester déterminée et résolue à s'acquitter de son mandat. Par ailleurs, la Conférence SOULIGNE LA NÉCESSITÉ URGENTE de mettre à disposition de l’AMISOM un financement prévisible et durable et du matériel nécessaire, afin de renforcer sa capacité, y compris les multiplicateurs de force, afin de lui permettre de s’acquitter plus efficacement de son mandat, conformément aux conclusions de l’examen conjoint UA-Nations unies et dans l’esprit du Cadre conjoint UANations unies pour un partenariat renforcé dans le domaine de la paix et de la sécurité, signé le 19 avril 2017. La Conférence SE FÉLICITE de la désignation par le Président de la Commission et le Secrétaire général des Nations unies de l’Ambassadeur Ramtane Lamamra, ancien ministre d’État des Affaires étrangères de l’Algérie, et de M. Jean-Marie Guéhenno, ancien Secrétaire général adjoint des Nations unies chargé des opérations de maintien de la paix, pour recommander à l’UA et aux Nations unies les meilleures options pour un financement prévisible et durable de l’AMISOM et des Forces nationales de sécurité somaliennes;

7. SE FÉLICITE des avancées enregistrées dans le cadre du processus électoral, en RDC notamment la publication le 5 novembre 2017, du calendrier électoral, fixant au 23 décembre 2018, la date de la tenue des élections provinciales, législatives et présidentielles, et EXHORTE les États membres de l’UA ayant les capacités logistiques requises à les mettre généreusement à la disposition de la RDC pour la réussite du processus électoral. La Conférence ENCOURAGE l’UA, avec la SADC, la CIRGL, et les Nations unies à continuer à conjuguer leurs efforts en vue d’un soutien cohérent et effectif à la RDC sur les plans financier, logistique et sécuritaire et PRIE la communauté internationale à apporter l’appui nécessaire, en vue de permettre la tenue des élections dans le respect du calendrier tel qu’annoncé le 5 novembre 2017. La Conférence EXPRIME SON PLEIN APPUI aux efforts du Président de la Commission en direction des autorités congolaises, et les EXHORTE à prendre les mesures visant à décrisper la vie politique. La Conférence APPELLE toutes les parties congolaises à faire preuve de la plus grande retenue dans ce contexte et CONDAMNE toutes formes de violences et DÉPLORE PROFONDÉMENT les pertes en vies humaines enregistrées;

8. RÉAFFIRME le rôle dirigeant de l’UA dans les efforts de mise en œuvre de l’Initiative africaine en RCA et EXHORTE tous les groupes armés à mettre fin aux violences et à l’usage des armes sur toute l’étendue du territoire. La Conférence APPELLE les États voisins de la RCA, membres du Panel de facilitation, à collaborer pleinement et à œuvrer au succès de l’Initiative en prenant des mesures visant à contrôler et empêcher les mouvements des groupes armés sur leurs territoires. La Conférence SOULIGNE L’IMPORTANCE que revêtent les efforts complémentaires de la Mission intégrée des Nations unies pour la stabilisation en République centrafricaine (MINUSCA) et de la Mission africaine en Centrafrique (MISAC), en vue de la restauration de l’autorité de l’État et l’adhésion des groupes armés aux programmes de désarmement, démobilisation, réintégration et rapatriement (DDRR). La Conférence ENCOURAGE le Gouvernement centrafricain à continuer ses efforts de redressement et de consolidation de la paix en dépit des nombreux défis auxquels le pays est confronté, ainsi que les partenaires à continuer à apporter leur appui à la reconstruction en RCA;

9. RÉAFFIRME l’attachement de l’UA à une résolution pacifique de la situation politique à travers un dialogue inclusif sur la base des Accords d’Arusha du 28 août 2000 et de la Constitution du Burundi et LANCE UN APPEL aux autorités burundaises à initier toutes les réformes constitutionnelles à travers un d’un large consensus national de toutes les parties prenantes. La Conférence ATTEND les conclusions des efforts du Facilitateur de la Communauté de l’Afrique de l’Est (CAE), l’ancien Président Benjamin Mkapa de Tanzanie, sous la direction du Médiateur de la CAE, le Président Yoweri K. Museveni de l’Ouganda, et EXPRIME sa disposition à déployer le Haut Comité des chefs d’État et de gouvernement sur le Burundi. La Conférence, APPELLE, UNE FOIS ENCORE, le Gouvernement of Burundi à signer le Mémorandum d’entente sur les activités relatif aux activités des Observateurs des Droits de l’Homme et des Experts militaires de l’Union africaine;

10. APPELLE les parties prenantes bissau-guinéennes à respecter leurs engagements et les EXHORTE à se conformer à/et à mettre en œuvre la Feuille de route de Bissau et l'Accord de Conakry de 2016, afin de trouver une solution à la crise et assurer le bon déroulement, le moment venu, des prochaines élections législatives de 2018. La Conférence SOULIGNE la responsabilité principale du Président de la République de promouvoir la création des conditions nécessaires à un dialogue inclusif et authentique pour instaurer la paix et la stabilité dans le pays et EXHORTE toutes les parties prenantes en Guinée-Bissau à s'abstenir d’actions qui pourraient enflammer davantage la crise. La Conférence RÉITÈRE SON SOUTIEN efforts de médiation déployés par la CEDEAO, y compris le rôle joué par l'ECOMIB dans le maintien et le renforcement de la stabilité en GuinéeBissau. La Conférence, tout en reconnaissant le rôle crucial de la mission dans le règlement de la crise et la restauration de la paix et de la stabilité en Guinée Bissau, APPELLE au renouvellement du mandat de l’ECOMIB, ainsi qu’à des efforts conjoints pour mobiliser des ressources financières afin de soutenir la poursuite de son opération dans le pays;

11. SE FELICITE des progrès réalisés jusqu'à présent, dans le cadre de la mise en œuvre de l'Accord du 20 juin 2015 pour la paix et la réconciliation au Mali, issu du processus d'Alger. De ce fait, la Conférence SE FELICITE EGALEMENT, en particulier des efforts déployés par le Gouvernement du Mali dans Le processus du dialogue politique avec les autres parties prenantes, ce qui a conduit à l'adoption d'une feuille de route des actions prioritaires à entreprendre en vue d'accélérer le processus de la paix. La Conférence DEMANDE INSTAMMENT aux parties signataires de l'Accord de persévérer dans sa mise en œuvre et de mettre en œuvre ladite Feuille de route, notamment les points concernmant la démobilisation, le désarmement, la réintégration et la sécurité afin de contribuer à la lutte contre le terrorisme;

12. EXHORTE UNE FOIS ENCORE les parties maliennes à redoubler d’efforts pour assurer une mise en œuvre diligente des dispositions prévues par l’Accord, et SE FÉLICITE de la signature d’un Accord de cessez-le-feu, le 23 août 2017 et des engagements de cessation définitive des hostilités signés le 20 septembre 2017, par les groupes armés signataires de l’Accord d’Alger. La Conférence EXHORTE EN OUTRE les parties maliennes à privilégier le consensus dans le cadre de l’organisation des prochaines élections prévues au cours de l’année 2018. La Conférence FÉLICITE la MINUSMA pour le travail accompli et lui RENOUVELLE LE SOUTIEN de l’UA dans ses efforts de stabilisation au Mali, et RÉITÈRE SON APPUI à la résolution 2374(2017), dans le cadre des efforts internationaux visant à accélérer le processus de mise en œuvre de l’Accord d’Alger. La Conférence EXPRIME ENCORE UNE FOIS SA PROFONDE PRÉOCCUPTATION face à la dégradation continue de la situation sécuritaire au Mali et dans la région du Sahel à cause de la continuation du fléau du terrorisme et du crime transfrontalier organisé et CONDAMNE toutes les attaques terroristes contre les civils et les forces maliennes et internationales;

13. SE FELICITE de l’opérationnalisation de la Force Conjointe du G5 Sahel et demande à la Commission et aux Etats membres d’apporter leur appui à cette Force dans sa mission de lutte contre le terrorisme et la criminalité transnationale organisée dans le Sahel. A cet égard, la Conférence LANCE UN APPEL à la Communauté internationale en vue de soutenir la tenue de la Conférence internationale de haut niveau sur le Sahel le 23 février 2018 à Bruxelles;

14. RÉITÈRE que le terrorisme et l'extrémisme violent continuent de représenter la menace la plus dangereuse à la paix, à la sécurité et à la stabilité en Afrique et CONDAMNE FERMEMENT les attaques terroristes perpétrées en Afrique. La Conférence RENOUVELLE son rejet total et sa condamnation du terrorisme sous toutes ses formes. À cet égard, la Conférence SE FÉLICITE des efforts déployés sur le continent pour combattre et vaincre les groupes terroristes, y compris l’organisation à Addis-Abeba, le 10 décembre 2017, de la réunion conjointe des processus de Nouakchott et de Djibouti, deux plateformes de partage d'information et de renseignement dans les efforts de l'UA de lutte contre le terrorisme. La Conférence PREND NOTE AVEC APPRÉCIATION de tout soutien que le Centre africain d'étude et de recherche sur le terrorisme (CAERT), le Comité des Services de renseignement et de sécurité de l’Afrique (CISSA) et le Mécanisme de coopération policière de l'UA (AFRIPOL) apportent aux États membres et CER/MR, en vue de renforcer les capacités dans leur lutte contre le terrorisme, l'extrémisme violent et la radicalisation sur le continent. La Conférence FÉLICITE les pays de la Commission du Bassin du Lac Tchad (CBLT) pour leur lutte continue contre le groupe terroriste Boko Haram. La Conférence DEMANDE à la Commission, en étroite collaboration avec les partenaires, de continuer à déployer les efforts nécessaires pour mobiliser un soutien supplémentaire et adéquat à la FMM, sur la base du besoin exprimé par les pays de la région, afin de les aider à combler leurs lacunes. La Conférence APPELLE EN OUTRE à la réalisation des annonces de contribution faites par les partenaires en appui à la FMM. La Conférence DEMANDE à tous les États membres de l'UA et à la communauté internationale tout entière à apporter l'assistance nécessaire aux pays de la région confrontés à une situation humanitaire catastrophique. La Conférence SE FÉLICITE des progrès accomplis dans l'opérationnalisation de la Force conjointe du G5 de lutte contre le terrorisme et le crime organisé dans le Sahel, ainsi que des contributions annoncées par différents partenaires, y compris l'adoption par le Conseil de sécurité de la résolution 2391 (2017). La Conférence ENCOURAGE l'ensemble de la communauté internationale à poursuivre les efforts en vue d'assurer à la Force conjointe du G5-Sahel un financement durable et prévisible et ATTEND AVEC INTÉRÊT les résultats de la Conférence sur le Sahel à Bruxelles, en février 2018, pour mobiliser des ressources supplémentaires en appui aux efforts des pays de la région. La Conférence SALUE l'Initiative de Coopération régionale pour l'élimination de l'Armée de Résistance du Seigneur (RCI-LRA) pour les avancées soutenues réalisées dans la lutte contre la LRA, et SE FÉLICITE du partenariat entre l'UA et les Nations unies dans ces efforts;

15. SE FÉLICITE des progrès continus de la Côte d’Ivoire sur la voie de la consolidation de la paix et de la stabilité dans le pays et ENCOURAGE les autorités ivoiriennes à poursuivre la réforme du secteur de sécurité et l’approfondissement de la réconciliation nationale;

16. EXPRIME, UNE FOIS ENCORE, sa profonde préoccupation face à l’impasse politique persistante et à la situation sécuritaire en Libye, qui continue de prolonger les souffrances du peuple libyen, saper les institutions juridiques du pays et de poser un défi à la sécurité et à la stabilité dans les pays voisins et dans la région toute entière. La Conférence RÉAFFIRME l’impératif d’engager les Libyens dans un processus de réconciliation nationale inclusive, afin de créer les conditions propices aux Libyens de déterminer eux-mêmes l’avenir de leur pays country et SOULIGNE LA NÉCESSITÉ pour l’Afrique de préserver l’unité et la solidarité africaines, ainsi que l’harmonie régionale dans la recherche d’une solution durable à la crise libyenne. La Conférence SOULIGNE EN OUTRE L’IMPORTANCE de renouveler et de renforcer la coopération entre l’Union africaine, les pays voisins et les Nations unies dans le règlement de la crise libyenne, en vue de parvenir à un large consensus sur les objectifs à réaliser et les initiatives à entreprendre. La Conférence DEMANDE à la Commission de relancer les efforts du Groupe de contact sur la Libye, en coopération étroite avec les Nations unies, afin de conjuguer les efforts de la communauté internationale sur la question et en appui aux efforts du Comité de haut niveau de l’UA sur la Libye et du Haut Représentant de l’UA sur la Libye. La Conférence EXPRIME, UNE FOIS ENCORE, son appréciation à S.E. M. Denis SASSOU NGUESSO, Président de la République du Congo, Président du Comité de haut niveau de l’UA sur la Libye, aux membres du Comité, au Représentant de l’UA sur la Libye, S.E. M. Jakaya KIKWETE, ainsi qu’aux pays voisins pour leurs efforts visant à instaurer une paix durable en Libye ;

17. EXPRIME SON SOUTIEN à la relance du processus de négociation entre le Maroc et la République Arabe Sahraouie Démocratique (RASD) en vue de parvenir à une solution durable conforme à l’esprit et à la lettre des décisions de l’OUA/UA et des résolutions pertinentes des Nations unies. La Conférence RÉITÈRE SON APPEL aux deux États membres, d’engager, sans conditions préalables, des pourparlers directs et sérieux, facilités par l’UA et les Nations unies pour l’organisation d’un référendum libre et juste pour l’autodétermination du peuple du Sahara occidental. L’UA étant prête à opérationnaliser, si et lorsque nécessaire, son Comité des chefs d’État et de gouvernement sur le Sahara occidental, la Conférence APPELLE les deux parties à coopérer pleinement avec le Haut Représentant de l’UA pour le Sahara occidental, l’ancien Président Joaquim A. Chissano du Mozambique, et l’Envoyé personnel du Secrétaire général des Nations unies, M. Horst Köhler. La Conférence DEMANDE au Maroc, en tant qu’État membre, de permettre à la Mission d’observation de l’UA de retourner à Laayoune, au Sahara occidental, et de permettre également un suivi indépendant des droits de l’homme dans le territoire. La Conférence RÉITÈRE ses appels répétés, en particulier sa déclaration adoptée lors de sa 24e Session ordinaire tenue à Addis-Abeba, les 30 et 31 janvier 2015, sur le Forum de Cran Montana, une organisation siégeant en Suisse, à cesser d’organiser ses réunions à Dakhla, au Sahara occidental et APPELE tous les États membres, les organisations de la société civile et autres acteurs concernés à boycotter la prochaine réunion prévue se tenir du 15 au 20 mars 20183;

18. RÉITÈRE SON APPEL aux États membres et aux CER/MR à accorder la priorité au soutien à et à la mise en œuvre des activités de reconstruction et développement post-conflit dans les zones sortant de conflit. La Conférence, tout en se félicitant de l’organisation par la Commission de la Conférence de N’Djamena sur la stabilisation du Bassin du Lac Tchad, DEMANDE au CPS de continuer de mobiliser le soutien, y compris des secteurs privés et des institutions financières internationales, en appui aux pays sortant de conflit en vue de prévenir la récidive et faire avancer la régénération de la résilience, ainsi que le renforcement du développement;

19. RAPPELLE ses décisions antérieures soulignant la nécessité d’accorder la priorité à la diplomatie préventive et à la médiation dans le traitement des situations de crise et de conflit et SOULIGNE LA NÉCESSITÉ de renforcer les capacités et les outils de prévention de l’UA, dans le contexte de l’objectif de

                                     3 Réserve émise par le Royaume du Maroc
    

« Faire taire les armes à l’horizon 2020 ». À cet égard, la Conférence DEMANDE au CPS, en étroite collaboration avec la Commission et le Groupe des Sages, et en prenant note du programme annuel du Groupe, d’explorer, dans le contexte du Protocole relatif à la création du CPS et de tous les autres instruments pertinents de l’UA, des voies et des moyens novateurs permettant de renforcer les approches préventives dans les efforts visant à promouvoir la paix, la sécurité et la stabilité;

1. RÉAFFIRME SON ENGAGEMENT à une plus grande participation et responsabilité des femmes dans les efforts de paix en Afrique. À cet égard, la Conférence PREND NOTE des efforts déployés en vue de finaliser un Cadre continental de suivi des engagements pris et des efforts de mise en œuvre par les États membres en matière de femmes, de la paix et de la sécurité. La Conférence SE FÉLICITE des mesures prises, afin d’opérationnaliser le « Réseau panafricain des Femmes médiatrices » (FemWise-Africa), comme un organe subsidiaire du Groupe des Sages, en particulier l’organisation de son Assemblée générale les 13 et 14 décembre 2017, à Constantine, en Algérie. La Conférence RÉAFFIRME ÉGALEMENT SON ENGAGEMENT à assurer la protection des enfants dans les situations de conflit en Afrique et PREND NOTE des activités entreprises à cet effet et PRIE le Président de la Commission d’accélérer le processus en vue de la nomination d’un Envoyé spécial pour la protection des enfants dans les situations de conflit;

2. SOULIGNE LA NÉCESSITÉ pour l’Afrique de poursuivre ses efforts en cours en vue de la revitalisation du Fonds de la Paix de l’UA, qui constitue un instrument stratégique dans le cadre de l’objectif du continent d’assurer la direction et le contrôle de son agenda paix et sécurité, à travers la mise à disposition d’un financement prévisible et durable. Dans ce contexte, la Conférence ENCOURAGE tous les États membres à poursuivre les efforts visant à revitaliser le Fonds de la Paix et EXPRIME SON APPRÉCIATION aux États membres qui ont déjà libéré leurs contributions au Fonds;

3. FÉLICITE les membres africains du Conseil de sécurité des Nations unies (A3) pour leurs efforts collectifs coordonnés dans la défense et la promotion des positions et des préoccupations africaines communes au Conseil de sécurité des Nations unies, y compris les communications régulières au CPS par le Coordinateur du Groupe A3. Dans ce contexte, la Conférence SOULIGNE L’IMPORTANCE pour les A3 de continuer de travailler comme un groupe cohérent et coordonné, parlant d’une seule voie, de renforcer davantage leurs consultations avec d’autres membres du CSNU et du Groupe Afrique à New York, et de continuer de tenir le CPS régulièrement informé des résultats de ces efforts. La Conférence FÉLICITE la République de Zambie pour la bonne organisation du 5e Séminaire de haut niveau, à Livingstone, les 4 et 5 décembre 2017 et APPROUVE les Conclusions dudit séminaire, telles qu’annexées au Rapport du Conseil de paix et de sécurité de l’Union africaine sur ses activités et l’état de la paix et de la sécurité en Afrique.

30e session ordinaire de la Conférence, 28 -29 janvier 2018, Addis-Abeba (Éthiopie)

The Assembly,

1. URGES the Malagasy parties to favour consensus with a view to establishing the conditions for a calm political climate that is conducive to the organisation of free, transparent and credible elections, in strict conformity with the provisions of the Malagasy Constitution. In that respect, the Assembly CONGRATULATES the Chairperson of the Commission on his efforts to support Madagascar in the consolidation of democracy and the rule of law, and ENCOURAGES his High Representative to pursue and intensify his interaction with all the stakeholders in Madagascar;

2. TAKES NOTE of the launching by the Commission, in close collaboration with the Inter-Governmental Authority on Development (IGAD), in Khartoum, from 8 to 10 October 2017, of the consultative process towards the development of a regional strategy for peace and security in the Horn of Africa, in line with the decision Assembly/AU/Dec. 472(XX) adopted in January 2013, in which the Assembly reiterated its support for a regional and holistic approach to resolving challenges to peace, security and stability in the Horn of Africa, in support of IGAD;

3. WELCOMES the signing, on 21 December 2017, by the South Sudanese stakeholders of an Agreement of Cessation of Hostilities, Protection of Civilians and Humanitarian Access, and COMMENDS IGAD for leading the High Level Revitalization Forum, which presents a unique opportunity for the implementation of the Agreement for the Resolution of the Conflict in South Sudan (ARCSS), in line with the Communique of the 720th meeting of the PSC, held at ministerial level, in New York, on 20 September 2017. The Assembly CONGRATULATES IGAD and the Chairperson of the Commission for their efforts that led to that achievement, towards finding a lasting solution to the conflict that continues to devastate South Sudan. The Assembly EXPRESSES DEEP CONCERN over the repeated violations of the Agreement by the parties, resulting in further deterioration of the already dire humanitarian situation caused by the ongoing conflict, and DEMANDS all warring parties to immediately put an end to all military actions and comply scrupulously with their commitments, as contained in the Agreement of 21 December 2017. The Assembly COMMENDS the AU High Representative for South Sudan, Alpha Oumar Konare, former President of Mali, and the Chair of the Joint Monitoring and Evaluation Commission [JMEC], Festus Mogae, former President of Botswana, for their collective efforts towards implementation of the ARCSS. The Assembly WELCOMES efforts by Presidents Yoweri K. Museveni of Uganda and Abdel Fattah el-Sisi of Egypt that led to the Cairo Declaration and the Entebbe Agreement aimed at reuniting the Sudan People’s Liberation Movement (SPLM). Furthermore, the Assembly COMMENDS the Transitional Government of National Unity (ToGNU) for formally accepting the Memorandum of Understanding establishing the Hybrid Court for South Sudan. The Assembly WELCOMES the enhanced coordination efforts between the IGAD, the AU and the UN;

4. NOTES WITH SATISFACTION the significant decrease of hostilities between the Government of Sudan and the rebel forces in Darfur and COMMENDS the Government of Sudan for extending the unilateral ceasefire as announced on 8 October 2017 and ENCOURAGES the armed movements to also reciprocate the overture meant for maintaining peace and stability in Darfur. The Assembly COMMENDS the United Nations African Union Hybrid Operation in Darfur (UNAMID) for the progress made on the first phase of the reconfiguration exercise and URGES the Mission to ensure the second phase is also completed in June 2018, in line with the schedule outlined in the relevant PSC communiqués and press statements, as well as UN Security Council resolutions. In this regard, the Assembly UNDERSCORES THE NEED to reflect in the UNAMID reviewed mandate the new configuration in Darfur to ensure that the Mission’s priorities are aligned with the realities on the ground, including the much-needed support for reconstruction and stabilization;

5. COMMENDS the rapprochement between the Republics of South Sudan and Sudan, in line with the Cooperation Agreement of 2012, and as a step further towards the objective to achieve two states at peace with each other. The Assembly ENCOURAGES Sudan and South Sudan to enhance their cooperation towards reinforcing good neighbourliness and addressing border insecurity. The Assembly CALLS FOR greater commitment by the two countries for the resolution of the issues relating to the Two Areas of Blue Nile and South Kordofan and Abyei.

6. COMMENDS the Federal Government of Somalia (FGS) and all Somali stakeholders for the continued gains being made towards consolidating peace, stability and reconciliation in Somalia, with the support of the African Union Mission in Somalia (AMISOM) and partners. The Assembly FURTHER COMMENDS the efforts deployed towards reconciliation to enhance the working relations between the FGS and its Federal Member States (FMS), which augurs well for the consolidation of peace and stability in Somalia. In this context, the Assembly HAILS the visits undertaked by H.E. Mohamed Abdullahi Mohamed Farmaajo, President of Somalia, to central and northern regions of Galmudug and Puntland for consultations with the stakeholders in these areas. The Assembly REAFFIRMS ITS FULL SUPPORT to the FGS, as well as its determination to spare no efforts towards achieving lasting peace, security and reconciliation in Somalia. The Assembly WELCOMES the progress made to date in the fight against the al-Shabaab terrorist group, thanks to the joint efforts by AMISOM and the Somali National Security Forces (SNSF). In this regard, the Assembly ENCOURAGES AMISOM to remain resolute and steadfast in discharging its mandate. Furthermore,, the Assembly UNDERLINES THE URGENT NEED for AMISOM to be provided with a predictable and sustainable funding and the requisite equipment to enhance its capacity, including force enablers and multipliers, with a view to enabling it to more effectively discharge its mandate, in line with the conclusions of the AU-UN Joint Review and in the spirit of the UN-AU Joint Framework for Enhanced Partnership in Peace and Security, signed on 19 April 2017. The Assembly WELCOMES the appointment by the Chairperson of the Commission and the UN Secretary General of Ambassador Ramtane Lamamra, former Minister of Foreign Affairs of Algeria, and Mr. Jean-Marie Guéhenno, former UN Under Secretary General in charge of Peacekeeping Operations, to recommend to the AU and the UN the best options for predictable and sustainable funding for AMISOM and the Somali security forces.

7. WELCOMES the progress made in the electoral process in the DRC, notably the announcement on 5 November 2017 of an electoral calendar setting the date of 23 December 2018 for the holding of the provincial, legislative and presidential elections, and URGES AU Member States with the necessary logistical capabilities, to generously make them available to the DRC for the success of the electoral process. The Assembly ENCOURAGES the AU, SADC, ICGLR, and the United Nations to continue to work together for coherent and effective financial, logistical and security support to the DRC, and INVITES the international community to give the necessary support for the holding of elections within the timeframe as announced on 5 November 2017. The Assembly EXPRESSES ITS FULL SUPPORT for the efforts of the Chairperson of the Commission with the Congolese authorities, and URGES them to take measures aimed at defusing political tension. The Assembly CALLS UPON all the Congolese parties to exercise utmost restraint in that regard and CONDEMNS all forms of violence and DEEPLY DEPLORES the loss of human lives;

8. REAFFIRMS the leading role of the AU in the efforts to implement the African Initiative in the CAR and URGES all armed groups to put an end to violence and the use of weapons throughout the territory. The Assembly CALLS UPON CAR neighbouring States, members of the Facilitation Panel, to fully cooperate and work towards the success of the Initiative by taking internal steps to control and prevent the movements of armed groups in their territories. The Assembly STRESSES THE IMPORTANCE of complementarity between MINUSCA and the African Mission for Central Africa (MISAC), with a view to restoring State authority and the adherence of armed groups to Disarmament, Demobilisation, Reintegration and Repatriation (DDRR) programmes. The Assembly ENCOURAGES the Government of the CAR to continue its recovery and peacebuilding efforts despite the many challenges the country faces, and the partners to continue to provide their support in the reconstruction of the CAR;

9. REAFFIRMS the commitment of the AU to a peaceful resolution of the political situation in Burundi through an inclusive dialogue on the basis of the Arusha Agreement of 28 August 2000 and the Constitution of Burundi and APPEALS to the Burundian authorities to initiate all constitutional reforms through a broad consensus of all stakeholders. The Assembly AWAITS the result of the efforts of the East African Community (EAC) Facilitator, former President Benjamin Mkapa of Tanzania, under the leadership of the EAC Mediator, President Yoweri Museveni of Uganda and EXPRESSES its readiness to deploy the High Level Committee of Heads of State on Burundi. The Assembly CALLS, ONCE AGAIN, on the Government of Burundi to sign the Memorandum of Understanding on the activities of the AU Human Rights Observers and Military Experts;

10. CALLS UPON the Bissau-Guinean stakeholders to abide by their commitments and URGES them to comply with and implement the 2016 Bissau Roadmap and Conakry Agreement, so as to resolve the crisis and ensure a successful and timely conduct of the upcoming 2018 legislative elections. The Assembly UNDERSCORES the primary responsibility of the President of the Republic to promote the compliance with the necessary conditions for an inclusive and genuine dialogue to bring about peace and stability in the country and URGES all stakeholders in Guinea-Bissau to refrain from actions that could further ignite the crisis. The Assembly REITERATES ITS SUPPORT to the mediation efforts being deployed by the ECOWAS, including the role being played by the ECOMIB in maintaining and enhancing stability in Guinea-Bissau. The Assembly, recognising the critical role of the mission in the resolution of the crisis and restoration of peace and stability in Guinea Bissau, CALLS FOR the renewal of ECOMIB mandate, as well as for joint efforts to mobilize financial resources to support the continuation of its operation in the country;

11. COMMENDS the progress made thus far in the implementation of the 20 June 2015 Agreement for Peace and Reconciliation in Mali which resulted from the Algiers process. In this context, the Assembly FURTHER COMMENDS, in particular, the efforts deployed by the Government of Mali in the conduct of political dialogue with other stakeholders, which led to the adoption of a Roadmap of proirity actions to be taken with a view to accelerating the peace process. The Assembly also URGES the signatory parties of the Agreement to persevere in its implementation, as well as implement the said Roadmap, particularly with respect to demobilization, disarmament and reintergration, and security in order to contribute to the fight against terrorism;

12. URGES, ONCE AGAIN, the Malian parties to redouble their efforts with a view to ensuring the speedy implementation of the provisions laid down in the Agreement, and WELCOMES the signing of a Ceasefire Agreement on 23 August 2017 and the commitment to the Cessation of Hostilities, signed on 20 September 2017, by the armed groups that are signatories to the Algiers Agreement. The Assembly FURTHER URGES the Malian parties to reach a consensus for the organization of the upcoming election in 2018. The Assembly COMMENDS MINUSMA for the work accomplished and RENEWS THE AU’S SUPPORT for its stabilization efforts in Mali, and REITERATES ITS SUPPORT to Resolution 2374(2017), within the framework of international efforts to accelerate the process for the implementation of the Algiers Agreement. The Assembly EXPRESSES, ONCE AGAIN, ITS DEEP CONCERN at the continuous deterioration of the security situation in Mali and the Sahel region due to continuation of the scourge of terrorism and organized transnational crime, and STRONGLY CONDEMNS all terrorist attacks against civilians and Malian and international forces;

13. WELCOMES the operationalization of the G5 Sahel Joint Force and requests the Commission and Member States to provide support for the Force in its mission to combat terrorism and transnational organized crime in the Sahel. In that regard, the Assembly CALLS ON the international community to support the organization of the High-Level International Conference on the Sahel to be held on 23 February 2018 in Brussels;

14. REITERATES that terrorism and violent extremism continue to represent the most dangerous threat to peace, security and stability in Africa and STRONGLY CONDEMNS the terrorist attacks perpetrated in Africa. The Assembly RENEWS its total rejection and condemnation of terrorism in all its forms. In this regard, the Assembly WELCOMES all efforts being deployed on the continent to fight and defeat terrorist groups, including the convening in Addis Ababa, on 10 December 2017, of the joint meeting of the Nouakchott and Djibouti processes, which are both platforms for sharing information and intelligence in AU counter terrorism efforts. The Assembly TAKES NOTE WITH APPRECIATION of all support that the African Centre for Study and Research on Terrorism (ACSRT), the Committee of Intelligence and Security Services in Africa (CISSA) and the newly operationalized AU Mechanism for Police Cooperation (AFRIPOL) are providing to Member States and RECs/RMs, with a view to enhancing capacities in their fight against terrorism, violent extremism and radicalization in the continent. The Assembly COMMENDS the countries of the Lake Chad Basin Commission (LCBC) for their continued fight against the Boko Haram terrorist group. The Assembly REQUESTS the Commission, working closely with partners, to continue to deploy necessary efforts towards mobilizing additional and adequate support for the MNJTF, based on the need expressed by the countries of the region, with a view to assisting them in filling its capability gaps. The Assembly FURTHER CALLS for the fulfilment of the pledges made by partners in support of the MNJTF. The Assembly CALLS ON all AU Member States and the international community at large to extend the necessary assistance to the countries of the region confronted with a dire humanitarian situation. The Assembly WELCOMES the progress made in operationalizing the G5 Sahel Joint Force to combat terrorism and organized crime in the Sahel, as well as the pledges made by different partners, including the adoption by the Security Council of Resolution 2391(2017). The Assembly CALLS UPON the international community as a whole to continue efforts to ensure sustainable and predictable funding for the G5 Sahel Joint Force, and LOOKS FORWARD to the outcomes of the Conference on the Sahel scheduled to be held in Brussels in February 2018, to mobilize additional resources to support efforts of the countries of the region. The Assembly COMMENDS the Regional Cooperation Initiative for the Elimination of the Lord's Resistance Army (RCI-LRA) for the sustained gains made in the fight against the LRA, and WELCOMES the partnership between the AU and the UN in these efforts;

15. WELCOMES the ongoing progress in Côte d’Ivoire on the path of consolidation of peace and stability in the country, and ENCOURAGES the Ivorian authorities to continue with the reform of the security sector and the deepening of the national reconciliation;

16. EXPRESSES, ONCE AGAIN, its deep concern over the persistent political impasse and the security situation in Libya, which continues to prolong the suffering of the Libyan people, undermine the country's legal institutions and pose a challenge to security and stability in the neighbouring countries and the whole region. The Assembly REAFFIRMS the imperative to engage the Libyans in an Inclusive National Reconciliation process in order to create the conditions conducive for the Libyans to determine themselves the future of their country and STRESSES THE NEED for Africa to preserve the African unity and solidarity, as well as the regional harmony in the search for a lasting solution to the Libyan crisis. The Assembly FURTHER STRESSES THE IMPORTANCE of renewing and enhancing cooperation between the African Union, the neighbouring countries and the United Nations in the resolution of the Libyan crisis, with a view to reaching a broad consensus on the objectives to be attained and the initiatives to be taken. The Assembly REQUESTS the Commission to re-launch the efforts of the Contact Group on Libya, in close cooperation with the United Nations, in order to bring together the efforts of the international community on the question and in support of the efforts of the AU High Level Committee on Libya and the AU High Representative on Libya. The Assembly EXPRESSES, ONCE AGAIN, its appreciation to H.E. Mr. Denis SASSOU NGUESSO, President of the Republic of the Congo, Chairman of the AU High Level Committee on Libya, members of the Committee, the AU High Representative on Libya, H.E. Mr. Jakaya KIKWETE, as well as to the neighbouring countries for their efforts to establish a lasting peace in Libya;

17. EXPRESSES ITS SUPPORT for the re-launching of the negotiation process between Morocco and the Sahrawi Arab Democratic Republic (SADR) with a view to reaching a durable solution consistent with letter and spirit of the relevant OAU/AU decisions and UN resolutions. The Assembly REITERATES ITS CALL on the two Member States, to engage, without pre-conditions, in direct and serious talks facilitated by the AU and the UN for the holding of a free and fair referendum for the people of Western Sahara. While the AU stands ready to operationalize, if and when necessary, its Committee of the Heads of State and Government on Western Sahara, the Assembly CALLS ON the two parties to fully cooperate with the AU High Representative for Western Sahara, former President Joaquim A. Chissano of Mozambique, and the Personal Envoy of the UN Secretary-General, Mr. Horst Köhler. The Assembly REQUESTS Morocco, as an AU Member State, to allow the AU Observer Mission to return to Laayoune, Western Sahara, as well as to allow an independent monitoring of human rights in the Territory. The Assembly REITERATES its repeated calls, in particular its declaration adopted at its 24th Ordinary Session held in Addis Ababa, from 30 to 31 January 2015, on the Crans Montana Forum, a Switzerland-based organization, to desist from convening its meetings in the city of Dakhla, in Western Sahara and APPEALS to all Member States, African civil society organizations and other relevant actors to boycott the upcoming meeting scheduled to take place from 15 to 20 March 20183;;

18. REITERATES ITS CALL to Member States and the RECs/RMs to prioritize support for and implementation of post-conflict reconstruction development activities in those areas emerging from conflict. The Assembly, while welcoming the holding by the Commission of the N’Djamena conference on stabilizing the Lake Chad Basin, CALLS ON the PSC to continue mobilizing support, including from the private sectors and international financial institutions, in support of countries emerging from conflict with a view to preventing relapse and advancing regeneration of resilience, as well as enhancing development;

19. RECALLS its previous decisions emphasizing the need to prioritize preventive diplomacy and mediation in approaching crisis and conflict situations and STRESSES THE NEED to enhance the AU’s prevention capabilities and tools, in the context of silencing the guns by 2020. In this respect, the Assembly REQUESTS the PSC, working closely with the Commission and the Panel of the Wise, and taking note of the annual programme of the Panel, to explore, within the context of the PSC Protocol and all other AU relevant instruments, innovative ways and means to enhance preventive approaches in efforts aimed at promoting peace, security and stability;

20. REAFFRIMS ITS COMMITMENT for greater participation and responsibility of women in peace efforts in Africa. In this regard, the Assembly TAKES NOTE of efforts being made towards finalizing a Continental Results Framework for monitoring and reporting on delivery by Member States on commitments and implementation progress on Women, Peace and Security. The Assembly WELCOMES the steps taken to operationalise "Pan African Network of Women Mediators" (FemWise-Africa), as a subsidiary body of the Panel of the Wise, in particular the convening of its General Assembly on from 13 to14 December 2017, in Constantine, Algeria. The Assembly ALSO REAFFIRMS ITS COMMITMENT to ensure protection of children in conflict situation in Africa and TAKES NOTE of the activities being undertaken to this effect and INVITES the Chairperson of the Commission to expedite the nomination of a Special Envoy for the protection of children in conflict situations;

                                            3 Reservation entered by the Kingdom of Morocco 
    

21. UNDERLINES the need for Africa to continue building the ongoing efforts to revitalize the AU Peace Fund which is a strategic asset in the continent’s efforts to lead and control its peace and security agenda through availing predictable and sustainable funding. In this context, the Assembly ENCOURAGES all Member States to continue deploying efforts towards the revitalization of the AU Peace Fund and EXPRESSES ITS APPRECIATION to those Member States which have already made their contribution to the Fund;

22. COMMENDS the African Members of the UN Security Council (A3) for their coordinated collective efforts in defending and promoting common African positions and concerns within the UN Security Council, including the regular briefings to the PSC by the Coordinator of the A3 Group. In this context, the Assembly STRESSES THE IMPORTANCE for the A3 to continue to work as a coherent and coordinated group, speaking with one voice and to further strengthen their consultations with other members of the UNSC and the Africa Group in New York, and to continue keeping the PSC regularly informed of the results of these efforts. The Assembly COMMENDS the Republic of Zambia for the successful hosting of the 5th High Level Seminar, in Livingstone, from 4 to 5 December 2017 and ENDORSES its Conclusions as attached to the Report of the Peace and Security Council of the African Union on its Activities and the State of Peace and Security in Africa.

Juba, 12 March 2018 – The Ministry of Health and the Ministry of Livestock and Fisheries has declared a Rift Valley fever (RVF) outbreak today (12 March) in Yirol East, Yirol West and Awerial Counties of Eastern Lakes State.

The declaration was preceded by a joint high-level advocacy mission led by the Minister of Health, Dr Riak Gai Kok. The mission, comprised of representatives from the Ministry of Health, Ministry of Livestock and Fisheries, the World Health Organization (WHO), and the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO), visited Yirol East on 6 March 2018 to consolidate response efforts and solicit more commitments by all stakeholders to contain the outbreak.

The RVF outbreak was first suspected in December 2017, following three deaths in humans with a history of severe hemorrhagic illness in Thonabutkok village, Yali Payam, Yirol East County, Eastern Lakes State. The initial case dated back to 7 December 2017. Abortions in goats and sheep; deaths/disease in goats and cows were also reported and epidemiologically linked to the human cases.

Following the reported cases and deaths, the Ministry of Health, and Ministry of Livestock and Fisheries with support from WHO, FAO and other human and animal experts, launched a multi-sectoral response, in the context of one health, for in-depth investigations to establish the exact cause of the reported deaths and illness in humans and animals.

Laboratory tests conducted by the Uganda Virus Research Institute (UVRI) confirmed that six human blood samples out of 34 collected were positive for Rift Valley fever. Also, one of the initial seven animal samples tested at UVRI was positive for Rift Valley Fever. Furthermore, 8 out of 21 samples collected from animals tested positive for RVF at the World Organization for Animal Health (OIE) reference laboratory in South Africa.

From 7 December 2017 to 9 March 2018, a total of 40 suspected human Rift Valley fever cases have been reported in the Eastern Lakes State. These have been reclassified based on investigations and laboratory results, as six RVF confirmed cases, three probable cases, and twelve suspected RVF cases (laboratory results are pending). Nineteen cases were discarded as non-cases following negative laboratory results for RVF and other common causes of viral haemorrhagic fever.

“Financial contributions from the European Union Humanitarian Aid (ECHO) and the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) allowed WHO to deploy experts and provide technical and logistical support,” said Mr Evans Liyosi, WHO representative a.i. to South Sudan.

WHO facilitated the establishment of a multi-sectoral rapid response to investigate and prevent further spread of the disease. WHO also moved to effectively coordinate the response and support State authorities with surveillance, risk communication, case management and logistics including prepositioning assorted medical supplies in Yirol East County.

A joint multi-sectoral contingency plan has been developed which will be fully rolled out in Eastern Lakes to ensure RVF is contained. This will involve intensified surveillance in both humans and animals, risk communication and case management.

RVF is a viral zoonotic disease that primarily affects animals, but also has the capacity to infect humans. People are infected with RVF virus through contact with blood, body fluids, or tissues of RVF virus-infected animals, mainly livestock. This direct contact with infected animals can occur during slaughter or veterinary procedures, like assisting an animal giving birth. Less commonly, people can be infected with RVF virus from bites of infected mosquitoes and, rarely, from other biting insects that have the virus on their mouthparts. Spread from person to person has not been documented.

OVERVIEW

In February, 110 humanitarian access incidents were reported, of which close to half involved violence (48 per cent). Forty of these were incidents of violence against humanitarian personnel. Twenty-four out of 30 incidents in Central Equatoria involved violence against personnel or assets. Thirty-one per cent of the incidents were attributed to criminals/unknown, compared to 18 per cent in December 2017 and 34 per cent in January. The number of incidents involving operational interference more than tripled, from 11 in January to 37 in February, as authorities continued to interfere in operations, procurement and staff recruitment, as well as illegal taxation, threats, intimidation and harassment of aid workers. Of the organisations reported as being affected by these incidents, international NGOs featured highest at 43 per cent, the UN at 39 per cent and national NGOs at 18 per cent.

IMPACT

In Bentiu, civilians forced the closure of a nutrition facility for several days, affecting delivery of services to nearly 5,400 children and pregnant mothers in the PoC site. On February 26, a joint assessment team of 29 humanitarians, from three aid agencies, was detained by SPLA-iO forces in Baggari, Wau County. The aid workers were released a day later unharmed, though the incident is indicative of continued access challenges in Baggari, where 25,000 are in need. In Upper Nile, authorities in Ulang expelled senior humanitarian staff from the county, where partners had in January undertaken a mission to address concerns over bureaucratic impediments being imposed. Over 71,000 people are in need of assistance and protection in Ulang and Nasir counties. In Akobo, food distribution targeting nearly 10,000 displaced people and a livestock vaccination exercise were suspended due to armed clashes. Transporters hauling humanitarian cargo from El Obeid (Sudan) and Juba to Bentiu complained of increased harassment by the armed forces at checkpoints.

In February 2018, Integrated Phase Classification (IPC) analysis estimated that in the worst case scenario, 6.3 million people, or 57 per cent of the population of South Sudan, would be severely food insecure from February to April 2018. In Unity, Jonglei, Upper Nile, and Central Equatoria, which are affected by recurring outbreaks of violent conflict and displacement, the proportion of people suffering from severe food insecurity ranges from 52 to 62 percent - more than half the states' combined population. Population displacement was reported in Unity, following fighting between government and opposition forces in Bauw, Koch County from 16 to 17 February, where there were also reports of civilian deaths and burning of homes. Brief clashes were also reported in Leer town. In Central Equatoria, over 3,360 IDPs (653 households) were displaced from Makaia to Yei town, after fighting broke out. In Eastern Equatoria, health partners reported suspected cases of meningitis, with 162 suspected cases and 30 deaths in Iyire and Imurok payams, Torit County. As of the end of February, partners were still investigating whether the illness and the deaths were as a result of meningitis.

The WHO Health Emergencies Programme is currently monitoring 50 events in the region. This week’s edition covers key new and ongoing events, including:

• Listeriosis in South Africa
  
• Rift Valley fever in South Sudan
  
• Lassa fever in Nigeria
  
• Cholera in Uganda
  
• Humanitarian crisis in Democratic Republic of the Congo

For each of these events, a brief description followed by public health measures implemented and an interpretation of the situation is provided.

A table is provided at the end of the bulletin with information on all new and ongoing public health events currently being monitored in the region, as well as events that have recently been closed.

Major issues and challenges include:

• The recent identification of the source of the listeriosis outbreak in South Africa provides critical guidance for the implementation of prevention and control measures, but risk communication to the public regarding food recalls and implementation of mechanisms to ensure removal of all potentially contaminated products from stores and regular inspection of food processing plants are needed to control this outbreak and prevent future cases.

• The confirmation of additional animal cases of Rift Valley fever in South Sudan and detection of human cases in a new county underscore the importance of scaling up One Health interventions to contain the outbreak in livestock and reduce the risk of animal to human transmission in communities at risk

CONTEXT AND METHODOLOGY

Renk town is located in Renk County, Upper Nile State, near South Sudan’s border with Sudan. Since independance in 2011, Renk has become a major destination and transit point for returnees from Sudan and, since the beginning of the current conflict in 2013, for internally displaced persons (IDPs) fleeing conflict in Upper Nile State.

This factsheet provides results from the REACH road monitoring exercise in Renk town, Renk County. REACH monitors one entry point in Renk to record the arrivals and departures of South Sudanese returnee and IDP households (HHs) on a daily basis. Daily data is synthesized into a monthly factsheet to provide an overview of wider movement trends, including push/pull factors and intentions.

The following findings are based on primary data collected throughout January 2018, during which 67 departing HHs (260 individuals) and 35 arriving HHs (154 individuals) and 84 transiting HHs (301 individuals) were recorded. Enumerators interviewed respondents who were arriving in and departing from Sukjima bus station. Travellers interviewed by REACH in January were all going to and from Sudan. Respondents were selected based on pre-survey questions on motives of travel to ensure that only displaced people or returnees were interviewed. Not all entry points to Renk town were covered systematically, and most arrivals reportedly took place after data collection hours (9:00 a.m - 5:00 p.m). As such, the data presented in this factsheet is not representative, rather indicative of movement trends for the assessed population.

Executive Summary

The USAID Promoting Resilience through Ongoing Participatory Engagement and Learning (PROPEL) program was designed to foster social cohesion and resilience in targeted communities in Jonglei, Lakes, and Eastern and Central Equatoria states in South Sudan through a Community-Driven Development (CDD) approach. PROPEL provided material improvements in the lives of community members and at the same time strengthened the communities’ capacity to drive their own development through harnessing their own resources, leveraging other donor-funded programs, and advocating for additional support to implement projects that address priority needs.

The purpose of this document is to share findings that informed a unified CDD methodology for USAID implementing partners in South Sudan (see PROPEL’s CDD Methodology for South Sudan1 ). This end-line report presents PROPEL’s social capital outcomes assessed through a baseline-to-end-line comparison of quantitative and qualitative results. It also addresses six learning questions designed to test PROPEL’s development hypothesis, and provide evidence-based recommendations for CDD implementation in varied contexts in South Sudan, also relevant for humanitarian and development interventions.

CDD is important in a conflict-affected context because it builds on existing forms of social capital to address challenges and strengthen leadership to effectively resolve localized conflict. CDD enhances a community’s capacity to mitigate and resolve conflict, primarily through the following processes:

• Community-led prioritization of conflict-triggers in project selection (i.e. access to water);

• Conflict-sensitive project implementation (i.e. transparent selection of cash-for-work beneficiaries, including members of different sub-clans in the same cash-for-work projects);

• Conflict-mitigation through sustainability mechanisms (i.e. Water User Committees trained on inclusive mechanisms for adapting bylaws in response to influxes of Internally Displaced Persons).

PROPEL began in September 2015 and ended in January 2018, with a total budget size of $13 million.
Implemented by Global Communities and Catholic Relief Services (CRS), the program’s primary objective was to foster social cohesion and capacity for collective action across internal community divides using a CDD approach to address pressing community needs. Led by representative, communityselected committees called Community Enhancement Teams (CETs), and following intensive community-wide deliberations to determine and prioritize needs (notably access to basic services such as clean water, functioning primary schools and roads), each PROPEL community selected projects for implementation. PROPEL administered a complementary peacebuilding fund, awarding small grants to local Civil Society Organizations to implement timely activities in PROPEL target communities to promote peace, address conflict triggers, and strengthen local capacity for conflict-resolution.

PROPEL’s cumulative project impact and results include: 48,102 persons received tangible benefits through improved access to basic services; 124 activities were designed and implemented to promote or strengthen the civic participation of women; of the active participants in community project prioritization 76% represented marginalized groups; 64% of CET members in all targeted communities represented marginalized groups; and 1,309 CET members and PROPEL stakeholders were trained in PACE participatory and inclusive community-driven development processes, including various project sustainability processes. PROPEL achievements included assisting 13 target communities in Awerial, Bor, Duk, Juba and Magwi counties to identify, prioritize and develop CDD projects designed to improve community resilience; completing 34 CDD projects; and completing two conflict mitigation and peacebuilding activities in Awerial and Juba.

Due to insecurity and changes in the national situation over the life of the project, PROPEL’s approach to Collaborating, Learning and Adapting (CLA) was predominantly informed by lessons learned and end-line data collection in eight of the original 16 target communities—in Awerial, Bor and two neighborhoods in Juba. PROPEL contributed to statistically significant increases on three key indicators of community resilience in agro-pastoralist communities, and communities with IDP settlements (six total in Awerial and Bor): levels of participation in community projects (3% increase), capacity to deal constructively with shared challenges (8% increase), and participation in decision-making and accountability mechanisms (7% increase).2 PROPEL also contributed to statistically significant increases on capacity for conflict resolution in Awerial and Bor, both internal (6% increase) and external (11% increase).

Juba, 9 March 2018, the CTSAMM Chairperson, Major General Ibrahim Abdeljeili, paid a courtesy call to the Ambassador of Japan to South Sudan, Mr. Seiji Okada, to receive funds of $500,000 USD provided to the mission with the aim supporting the peace process in South Sudan. The funds will enable the CTSAMM to carry out its mandate of monitoring the ceasefire in South Sudan. The project funding will enhance the efforts to conduct outreach with civil society and other stakeholders with specific focus on addressing gender issues. Funds will also be used to acquire vehicles and communication tools as well as other resources necessary for the CTSAMM teams to carry out their monitoring activities in various field locations.

During the function, the CTSAMM Chairperson expressed appreciation to the people of Japan for their commitment and contribution to the CTSAMM. He also remarked that the monitoring mechanism would be unable to fulfil its mandate if not for the generous contributions from donor countries. In return, Ambassador Okada underlined the recognition of the critical importance of CTSAMM’s activities in achieving peace in South Sudan and expressed his hope that Japanese funds can help contribute to this effort.

In addition to the above, Japan also contributes 3.6 million USD to IGAD for the purpose of supporting political process in South Sudan, including support to High Level Revitalization Forum.

ENDS

49,000+ Refugees verified in Yida

18,000+ refugee children enrolled in primary school in Upper Nile

~6,000 children Benefited from Blanket Supplementary Feeding Programme in Doro, Gendrassa and Kaya camps in Upper Nile

KEY FIGURES

INSIDE SOUTH SUDAN

287,375 Refugees in South Sudan as of 28 February 2018.

1.8 million IDPs in South Sudan including 203,980 in UNMISS Protection of Civilians sites as of 22 February 2018

US $809.4 million Funding requested by UNHCR for the South Sudan Situation in 2018.

Update on Achievements

PROTECTION

Achievements and Impact

Unity

■ A total of 49,083 individuals (89% of 55,174 targeted population) have gone through the process of verification in Yida refugee settlement as of the end of February 2018. Apart from verification, the exercise also aims at individually During the reporting period, 1,307 new arrivals (690 women, 617 men) were registered in Yida, which represents a 54% increase against the same period last year when 689 new arrivals were registered. Food shortage in South Kordofan is the main driver for new arrivals.

■ A total of 1,580 refugees were relocated to Jamjang camps, including 498 to Ajuong Thok and 1,082 to Pamir. This number also includes 304 refugees from Yida settlement and 1,276 new arrivals. As of the end of February the refugee population across Jamjang camps and settlements was as follows: Ajuong Thok - 41,520, Pamir - 21,882, Yida refugee settlement - 53, 649.

■ UNHCR partner, Humanitarian and Development Consortium (HDC), held negotiations with the police and other relevant actors for the release of three refugees who were arrested without proper charges levelled against them. Two refugees were released due to the lack of evidence and one case, involving physical assault, was released on bail. All three cases received legal advice/ counselling.

■ During the reporting period, 23 SGBV cases were reported, including 3 cases in Pamir, 9 cases in Ajuong Thok refugee camps and 11 cases in Yida refugee settlement. The cases involved physical assault (12 cases), rape (4 cases), sexual assault (3 cases), and psychological /emotional abuse (4 cases). All the survivors received individual counselling as well as material support.

■ A total of 13 Community Outreach Volunteers (COVs) were selected in order to strengthen community outreach and ensure proper geographical coverage. The target is to have 75 against current 56 COVs who will provide multi-sectoral functions in Ajuong Thok and Pamir refugee camps as well as Yida refugee settlement.

■ During the reporting period 400 separated children were identified. A total of 887 separated children have been identified since the beginning of the verification exercise in February 2018.

Central Equatoria

■ In Juba, 43 individuals were registered and 17 refugees were reactivated following a protection screening conducted in collaboration with the Commission for Refugee Affairs (CRA). The total number of refugees and asylum seekers currently in Juba is 4,561 persons, including 1,983 asylum seekers and 2,578 refugees. Of this number, 416 persons have special protection needs.

■ In Juba a total of 188 documents, including 31 refugee ID cards, 127 Asylum Seeker Certificates and 30 Proofs of Registration were issued/re-issued to refugees and asylum seekers. engaging with refugees to inform them of the government relocation policy.

Tokyo – The Government of Japan has donated USD 30.5 million to support IOM, the UN Migration Agency, in its 2018 operations – assisting vulnerable migrants such as displaced persons, refugees, returnees and affected communities, in the midst of various conflicts and crises continuing around the world. With this donation, Japan will also support increasing the capacity of various governments in their humanitarian border management efforts.

Almost half of the contribution (USD 14 million) has been allocated to support IOM programmes in Sub-Saharan Africa, including in Sudan, the Gambia, Senegal, Mauritania, Mali, Sierra Leone, Djibouti, Kenya, Somalia, South Sudan, Democratic Republic of the Congo and Lesotho.

In Asia, the Japanese funding will be used to respond to the Rohingya crisis in Bangladesh, and will be put towards the provision of shelter, health assistance, and alternative fuels so as to preserve the forestry surrounding refugee sites. It will also assist vulnerable Afghan returnees from Iran with life-saving post-arrival humanitarian assistance, and fund the returns of skilled nationals from Iran.

The Government of Japan has provided substantial funding for IOM activities in the Middle East and North Africa, specifically in Turkey, Egypt, Jordan, Lebanon and Syria. Specific portions of the funding were designated for the regional response to the Syrian crisis, assistance to internally displaced persons in Iraq and improved border management in Libya.

In Ukraine, the Japanese funding will support IOM’s efforts to enhance social cohesion amongst selected communities in the conflict affected Donbas region.

The Government of Japan remains a strong partner of IOM. Its generous support has helped strengthen the organization’s humanitarian, transition, recovery, and peace building programmes, including through the delivery of immediate lifesaving relief; community stabilization and early recovery activities; emergency return and reintegration assistance for migrants caught in crises.

For more information, please contact Yuko Goto at IOM Tokyo, Tel: + 81 3 3595 0108, Email: iomtokyo@iom.int

Humanitarian needs & key figures

The HNO identifies the needs of people based on their vulnerabilities. For example, rather than assuming that all Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) are in need because they are displaced, only vulnerable IDPs have been considered. The main humanitarian needs in Sudan result from several factors: New and protracted displacement due to conflict, and chronic poverty and under-development including due to economic sanctions, affect access to basic services, disrupts the livelihoods and food security of many people and exposes the displaced to serious risks to their safety and dignity. Acute malnutrition in children under the age of five is above emergency thresholds in various areas across the country. Refugees and asylum seekers, especially from South Sudan, continue to arrive in Sudan seeking protection and humanitarian assistance. Returnees (both refugees and IDPs) are also vulnerable. Natural hazards in Sudan in particular floods and droughts impact food security and the livelihoods of vulnerable people.

The total number of people estimated to be in need of humanitarian assistance in 2018 is 5.5 million, an increase of 0.7 million compared to 2017. The increase in needs is due to: Access to areas that opened up in Jebel Marra, South Kordofan and Blue Nile, within the framework of the revised directives on humanitarian action published by the Government’s Humanitarian Affairs Commission (HAC) in December 2016, enabled needs assessments to be conducted revealing severe malnutrition and access to basic services below emergency thresholds. While agricultural production improved in 2017, food insecurity needs increased mainly driven by increases in prices. Without an increase in income, a larger proportion of IDPs are finding themselves with very limited economic access to food. The Acute Watery Diarrhoea (AWD) outbreak that started in 2016 continued throughout 2017.

1 Basic services for internally displaced people

Darfur remains an epicentre of large-scale protracted displacement and most IDPs are unable to meet their basic needs independently. While the number of people displaced in 2017 has been limited, new needs have emerged in areas that have opened up to humanitarians workers, especially in Jebel Marra, South Korfodan and Blue Nile. According to recent estimates from the government of Sudan, as of November 2017, the number of IDPs has reduced from 2.3 million to 1.997 million. Based on revised estimates, there are about 386,000 returnees who have voluntarily returned to their places of origin across Sudan. The UN and partners will continue to work with the Government to further verify these numbers.
The United Nations (UN) and partners estimate that a further 500,000 displaced people live in host communities and settlements in Darfur. Armed movements in South Kordofan and Blue Nile estimate that an additional 545,000 people are displaced in areas under their control

2 Food insecurity

The government Food Security Technical Secretariat (FSTS) estimates that in 2018, some 4.8 million people are living at crisis or emergency levels of food insecurity. Arable lands in some food-producing areas are difficult to access and, even when crops can be grown, inadequate transport infrastructure has prevented access to markets.

3 Acute malnutrition in children

According to the Ministry of Health of the 2.47 million children and PLW suffering from wasting (Global Acute Malnutrition – GAM) annually in Sudan, some 694,000 suffer from Severe Acute Malnutrition (SAM). In 2018, 11 out of the 18 states have a malnutrition prevalence of above 15 per cent, which is above the emergency threshold as per WHO standards.

4 Influx of refugees

In 2018, an estimated 1.2 million refugees and asylum seekers are living in Sudan and in need of humanitarian assistance. This includes over 455,000 South Sudanese refugees who had arrived in Sudan, as of 15 October, since the start of the conflict in South Sudan in December 2013, and an estimated 200,000 additional South Sudanese refugees anticipated to arrive in 2018.
There are also over 155,000 refugees living in protracted situations across five states in Eastern Sudan.

Major Epidemiological Developments W2 2018

• Completeness for IDSR reporting is 61% at county level and 81% for the IDP sites.

• A total of 16 alerts were reported, of which 56% have been verified. 0 alerts were risk assessed and 0 required a response.

• Rift Valley Fever outbreak - Yirol East with 40 suspect human cases including 6 confirmed; 3 probable; 19 non-cases; and 12 pending classification. One confirmed animal case (cattle).

• Following the confirmation of a measles outbreak in Aweil East [after four measles IgM positive cases were confirmed on 24 Feb 2018], a reactive measles campaign planned targeting children 6 months to 15 years.

• Suspect meningitis cases reported in Torit county, Iyire & Imurok payams. Overall at least 166 suspect cases including 30 deaths have been eported. Alert and action thresholds have been surpassed but laboratory confirmation is pending. Current response entails overall coordination, surveillance and laboratory confirmation, case management and social mobilization. Partners - ARC, SCI, SSRC, WHO, Unicef, IOM, MSF-CH are supporting the response.