Reference :
V-P-SD-E-02683
Date :
07/06/2023
Caption :
Khartoum, Mygoma orphanage. The ICRC evacuates 300 children from a risk area to the city of Wad Madani.
Confidentiality level :
public
Publication restrictions :
publication without restrictions
Description :
Source: ICRC website, article 14.06.23
"Amid heavy combat that has devastated Khartoum for six gruelling weeks, a glimmer of relief emerged as 300 children and 71 dedicated caretakers from Mygoma Orphanage were successfully evacuated on 7 June 2023. The destination: Wad Madani, located approximately 200 kilometres away.
"Carin Naike Kohl, the Protection Coordinator in Sudan and part of the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) team behind the operation, sheds light on its nature and challenges.
"What was it like on the bus journey to Wad Madani?
"There was a mix of emotions in the air. There was a general feeling of relief, as people knew they were headed towards safety, away from the sounds of gunfire. Yet, grief shadowed the moment as nannies and workers left behind their homes and years of dedication, uncertain of what lay ahead. The older children were very happy, while the younger ones may not have fully comprehended the situation, making it a bittersweet moment for all involved.
"Tell us about the challenges the team faced during the evacuation.
"The team faced significant challenges, primarily in the logistical aspect of evacuating such a large group of children. Organizing buses, food, and other essentials posed considerable obstacles. However, through a remarkable display of teamwork, the operation prevailed, marked by numerous discussions and collaboration at various levels. Everything worked out well.
"What role did the ICRC play in ensuring the safe passage and well-being of the children and staff from the Mygoma Orphanage?
"We played a vital role as a neutral intermediary, responding to the Ministry of Social Development's request for support in evacuating the children and staff from the orphanage. Our role involved first and foremost obtaining safe passage from the parties to the conflict, coordinating logistics, such as transportation and provisions, and of course, maintaining continuous communication with the Orphanage and the Ministry of Social Development as well as the Ministry of Health. We safely transported the children from Khartoum to Wad Madani, a three-hour journey, where they were handed over to the Ministry of Social Development for continued care and placement."
Original material :
digital
Resolution :
1080x1080
Orientation :
portrait
Colour/B&W :
colour
