El Fasher Voluntary Network
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Authors
Elizabeth Dunn
Issue Date
2015-05
Type
Language
en
Keywords
Agriculture
Alternative Title
Abstract
The Fasher Voluntary Network works in 6 localities in Darfur, Sudan. There are 71 societies under the umbrella of the Network. The Network focuses on rural development. It was formed in 2005 and became registered in 2006. The Network: Delivers training Education Social Services Health Peace Building Increase in agriculture production Environment “We thank God that we deliver services through Practical Action and other NGO’s.” The Network has grown to have partnerships with WFP, UNDP, UNICEF, USAID, PA, Oxfam etc. They cover an area of 100-140 km. The closest is 7km. It was formed by communities, which is important because it is delivered by local people for local people: they know the communities, areas and animals. Practical Action provided them with support and training in the following: Management and organization Advocacy Strategy PAPD M&E Project management Organisation development Finance “We are proud because we are leading poverty reduction in our area and we are proud of this.” The project they are most proud to be a part of is Greening Darfur “because the war resulted in conflict, even between families and this project aimed to help people in so many ways and the project helped to stop conflict." “Because of the peacebuilding tools, all these communities are now living together, in peace.” Terraces for water harvesting have been established and community forests for 12 communities. More than 800,000 people have been helped. “Security is the main problem we face. We have lost staff due to kidnap.” There have been multiple instances of robbing and kidnaps and a car was once high jacked. When goods are stolen or terraces are built and then destroyed, they have to start from the beginning. Inflation is also a problem. Generally it is now safer and security is better but it can still be a challenge. They are working on the building of a WADI with Practical Action and Water Harvesting for Livelihoods. The lack of rain due to climate change is also a huge problem. There is very little water in North Darfur. They help by distributing saplings and teaching people how to grow them. Humans have destroyed the natural habitat. 95% of people in the area are suffering from low production. Sand creeping is also a huge problem. A revolving fund is used for sustainability. All communities are involved with project design. “The communities feel very happy.”