OCHA-managed funds help displaced communities get clean water in North Darfur

For 47-year-old Ali Adam Mohammed, life in Daba Naira camp, Tawila, North Darfur, has been shaped by scarce water. He arrived two years ago, joining tens of thousands of displaced people living in harsh conditions where access to clean water and sanitation are limited.

Drawing on his experience maintaining water systems, Ali became a member, and now leader, of the Water User Committee, supported by the OCHA-managed Sudan Humanitarian Fund (SHF). He coordinates repairs, oversees maintenance schedules, and promotes hygiene practices, including handwashing and safe water handling.

“The community trusted me because I had worked on water systems before,” Ali said.

“The most important lesson I learned is how to build strong relationships between people from different camps,” Ali added. “We are now one team working towards the same goal – clean water for everyone.”

Under his leadership, the committee has rehabilitated the camp’s main water yard, protected solar equipment, and established a communication network to coordinate repairs. Community hygiene promoters support these efforts, spreading messages on sanitation and safe water use.

SHF funding has enabled partners, including Solidarités International, to reach tens of thousands of displaced families in Tawila, delivering essential water, sanitation, and hygiene services. In 2024-2025, SHF allocated over US$76 million across North Darfur, including $25.8 million for Tawila, assisting more than 2.4 million people across the state.

Thanks to this support and local leadership, displaced communities now have more reliable access to clean water, improved hygiene practices, and safer, more sustainable water systems, restoring dignity and strengthening resilience in daily life: https://www.unocha.org/news/building-hope-through-water-north-darfur

Posted February 2026

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