Refugees in Birao camp face severe food and water shortages, leaving thousands struggling for survival for over five months.
A Sudanese refugee told that food rations were suspended last year, with only minimal cash distributed recently.
He described the camp’s water situation as critical, relying on rainwater that has now turned cloudy and caused widespread illness.
Wells remain nonfunctional after spare parts were stolen, forcing long queues and crowds at the limited water collection points.
Security personnel reportedly imposed fines of up to 1,000 riyals on those protesting or creating disruptions over the water shortage.
Birao camp shelters many Sudanese, including seasonal herders who cross between Sudan and the Central African Republic seeking pasture and water.
The United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees estimates over 38,000 Sudanese crossed into the Central African Republic since Sudan’s war began in April 2023.
This movement forms part of a larger refugee crisis affecting more than 4.1 million Sudanese across neighbouring countries in the region.
Humanitarian aid remains insufficient, leaving camp residents vulnerable to disease, hunger, and the growing pressures of overcrowding.
Refugees warn that without urgent intervention, the situation may deteriorate further, risking widespread suffering and potential loss of life.
