Direct and indirect hostilities between the Chadian government and various local rebel groups, the Chadian government and Sudan, and the Sudanese government and rebel groups in Darfur, have lead to a grave humanitarian crisis in the already desolate region of eastern Chad. An estimated 260,000 Sudanese refugees, displaced by the conflict in Darfur, and 185,000 Chadians, displaced by the fighting in their own country, now reside in camps in eastern Chad, putting intense pressure on a host-community of approximately 700,000 people. The resulting strain on local resources, including food, water, grazing land and fuel sources, has led to an increased risk of life-threatening disease and malnutrition for all three populations. With CIDA support, the United Nations Humanitarian Air Service is helping to provide safe, efficient, and cost-effective air transport service for over 100 UN agencies, non-governmental organizations, and donor organizations providing humanitarian assistance to Sudanese refugees, host populations, and displaced persons in eastern Chad. In addition to carrying passengers, the service is transporting light cargo, such as medical supplies and equipment, and providing timely evacuations for medical, security and casualty needs.
