Acronyms

CBOs Community Based Organizations

CBS Census Bureau of Statistics
CSOs Civil Society Organizations
CPA Comprehensive Peace Agreement
CRMA Crisis and Recovery Mapping and Analysis
DDR Disarmament, Demobilization and Reintegration
DFID Department for International Development
FAO Food and Agriculture Organization
FFAMC Fiscal and Financial Allocation Monitoring Commission
FGM Female Genital Mutilation
FMOGE Federal Ministry of General Education
GBV Gender Based Violence
IDPs Internally Displaced Persons
INGOs International Non Governmental Organizations
JAM Joint Assessment Mission
JDB Joint Defence Board
KAP Knowledge, Attitudes and Practices
NCP National Congress Party
NGOs Non-Governmental Organizations
RRR Return, Reintegration and Recovery
SHHS Sudan Household Health Survey
SIFSIA Sudan Institutional Food Security Information for Action
SPCRP Sudan Productive Capacity Recovery Program
SPLM / A Sudan People’s Liberation Movement / Army
UNDAF United Nations Development Assistance Framework for Sudan
UNDP United Nations Development Program
UNHCR United Nations Higher Commission for Refugees
UNICEF United Nations Children and Education Fund
UNMAO United Nations Mine Action Organization
UXOs Unexploded Ordinances
WES Water, Environment and Sanitation
WFP World Food Programme

3
Table of Contents

Executive Summary................................................................................................ 6

Section A................................................................................................................. 7
1. Introduction....................................................................................................... 7
2. General Background......................................................................................... 7
2.1 Physical Environment.................................................................................. 8
2.1.1 Topography........................................................................................ 8
2.1.2 Hydrology........................................................................................... 9
2.1.3 Climate............................................................................................... 10
2.1.4 Soils.................................................................................................... 10
2.1.5 Vegetation and Land Use................................................................... 12
2.2 Population................................................................................................... 14
2.2.1 Demography...................................................................................... 14
2.2.2 Ethnic distribution and migration....................................................... 15
2.3 Poverty and Basic Services....................................................................... 15
2.3.1 Health Services................................................................................. 16
2.3.2 Water and Sanitation......................................................................... 18
2.3.3 Basic Education................................................................................. 19
2.4 Economic Situation..................................................................................... 23
2.5 The State of Women................................................................................... 25
2.6 State Funding............................................................................................. 27
3. Conflict and Peace in Blue Nile State.............................................................. 28
3.1 Political History of Blue Nile....................................................................... 28
3.1.1 Native Administration and Land Use................................................. 28
3.1.2 Causes of the War............................................................................. 29
3.2 Current Political Situation........................................................................... 30
3.2.1 Power Sharing................................................................................... 30
3.2.2 Security Reform................................................................................ 30
3.2.3 Wealth Sharing.................................................................................. 31
3.3 Threats to Community Stability.................................................................. 32
3.3.1 Roseires Dam heightening................................................................ 32
3.3.2 Disputes between farmers and pastoralists....................................... 34
3.3.3 Disputes between small farmers and large holding farmers............. 37
3.3.4 Disarmament and Reintegration........................................................ 37
3.3.5 Landmines, UXOs and lack of integrating infrastructure................... 38
3.3.6 Limited peace dividend...................................................................... 40
3.3.7 Urbanization...................................................................................... 41
3.3.8 High rate of unemployment............................................................... 41
3.3.9 High rates of HIV / AIDS................................................................... 42
4. Conclusion....................................................................................................... 43

Section B
Outcome 1: Peacebuilding.................................................................................... 44
Outcome 2: Governance and Rule of Law............................................................ 47
Outcome 3: Livelihoods and Productive Sectors................................................... 49
Outcome 4: Basic Services and Infrastructure...................................................... 51

List of Maps

Figure 1 Slope classes of the Blue Nile State......................................................... 9

Figure 2 Distribution of soil units ............................................................................ 11
Figure 3 Land Cover Distribution ........................................................................... 13

4
Figure 4 Health Facility Coverage........................................................................... 17
Figure 5 Water Supply Coverage............................................................................ 19
Figure 6 Schools Coverage..................................................................................... 22
Figure 7 Expected Expansion of the Roseries Dam Reservoire............................ 33
Figure 8 Large Scale Farms and Seasonal Livestock Migration Routes................ 36
Figure 9 IDPs and Returnnes ................................................................................. 38
Figure 10 Perceived SALW Threats ....................................................................... 40

List of Tables

Table 1: Rainfall by locality...................................................................................... 10

Table 2: Population by locality................................................................................. 14
Table 3: Children under 5 by locality....................................................................... 14
Table 4: Comparative child health indicators........................................................... 16
Table 5: Health facilities by locality.......................................................................... 16
Table 6: Medical staff by locality.............................................................................. 16
Table 7: Comparative water and sanitation statistics.............................................. 18
Table 8: Improvements in basic education (2008 – 2009) ..................................... 20
Table 9: Improvements in enrolment in basic education (2002 – 2007) ................ 20
Table 10: Out of School Boys and Girls by State 2008-2009 School Year............. 20
Table 11: Government Teachers by Status of Training and Sex............................ 21
Table 12: sources of rural household income.......................................................... 23
Table 13: Summary of road assessment and road clearance................................. 25
Table 14: Marital status........................................................................................... 26
Table 15: UN/IOM organized IDPs and Refugees return 2006-2009..................... 37
Table 16: Distribution of HIV/ AIDS........................................................................ 42

5
Executive Summary

The objective of this document is to produce a consolidated situation analysis that

will, in turn, guide programming and planning support for Blue Nile State. The
document is comprised of two main parts. Part A provides an in-depth Situation
Analysis for Blue Nile State and Part B develops an Analysis Framework to guide
programming in the area.

The report is based on the outcomes of the UNDP threat and risk mapping process
conducted in June 2008 – January 2009 and the follow-up consultations with key
stakeholders in Blue Nile State that took place in October 2009. Information
produced through the initial CRMA mapping process was subsequently validated and
re-affirmed, while additional information from broader studies and surveys was
gathered and grafted onto this basis. Individual consultations included state
government officials, influential civil society organizations, national and international
NGOs and UN agencies. These follow-up discussions focused largely on existing
gaps in the recovery and development effort and the measures required to address
them. The input of different people and groups, throughout the process, drew heavily
upon their respective areas of expertise, articulating core concerns for the state
either on an individual or collective basis.

The information contained in Section (B), is primarily a reflection and summary of

participants’ views around the strategic outcomes established by the UNDAF. The
UNDAF captures the need to inform priorities for a common longer-term development
vision, promoting sustained peace in Sudan and ensuring national ownership of the
process. It is a joint framework for both the UN and the government. Discussions in
preparation for this document thus covered all four strategic outcomes envisaged by
the UNDAF framework – peace building, governance and rule of law, livelihoods and
productive sectors, and basic services.

If the promise of sustained peace and development is to be delivered for Blue Nile
State, the following steps for immediate action emerged throughout the consultation
process:

1. Identify and form a land tenure system that recognizes the rights of local
communities (peasants and pastoralists) to control and access land, and that
can mediate in conflicts over land;

2. Invest in basic infrastructure for the state to ensure equitable access for
and integration of all communities and geographical areas;

3. Improve the provision of basic services, particularly for war affected areas
and areas that are growing fast (returnee areas, urban centres, areas of
nomadic settlement);

4. Enhance the full integration between NCP and SPLM elements in the civil
service, administration of state localities, security and military.

5. Provide skills for employment and access to financial services to alleviate

the high unemployment rate in the state, especially among youth.

6
SECTION A: Situational Analysis

1. Introduction

This report follows the first cycle of threat and risk mapping for Blue Nile State which
was completed in January 2009. The information contained in this document is
designed to guide the identification of policy priorities in Blue Nile State and inform
strategic planning activities at the State level. On the side of UNDP, targeting and
development of particular interventions will draw upon the information provided
through this process.

Individual consultations for Blue Nile state were carried out in preparation for this
report, engaging government staff that are currently active at both state and locality
levels. Consultations with civil society organizations, NGOs and UN Agencies,
working in Blue Nile, were also built into the process. Cumulatively, these actors
helped fill important information gaps for the state and finalize an analysis necessary
for evidence-based planning processes.

The report is broken down into two sections. Section (A) provides analysis of the
context in Blue Nile State across a wide variety of areas including geography,
demography and the state economy. Further, the section addresses the political
history of the state as well as specific matters relating to the CPA and the successful
implementation of its provisions. Finally, the section addresses areas that are of
concern to policymakers and to the population of Blue Nile alike. These issues are:
Roseires Dam heightening; disputes between nomads and pastoralists; disputes
between small farmers and large holding farmers; displacement and return;
landmines and UXOs; the limited peace dividend; urbanization. A firm grasp of this
context is essential for effective project design in the region.

Section (B) of the report develops an Analysis Framework for Blue Nile State based
upon the priorities laid down by the UNDAF. The UNDAF was developed by joint UN-
Government Technical Working Groups based on JAM cluster working groups with
the aim of consolidating the national and state five-year strategic plans (2007-2011)
through recovery and development programmes in support of CPA milestones,
guided by the goals and targets of the Millennium Declaration. The UNDAF thus
captures the varying needs to inform priority setting for a common longer-term
development vision, promoting sustained peace in Sudan and ensuring national
ownership of the process. In turn, discussions in preparation for this document
covered all four strategic outcomes envisaged by the UNDAF framework – peace
building, governance and rule of law, livelihoods and productive sectors, and basic
services. 2010 is a crucial year for CPA implementation in Blue Nile. At the same
time, policy makers are shifting from a humanitarian to an early recovery setting,
focusing on long term development. This document hopes to provide context and
analysis for actors working in this shifting policy landscape.

The conclusion of this report draws together the important issues, priorities, activities
and ‘gaps’ highlighted by the processes of mapping and consultation.

2. General Background

Blue Nile State is one of the three areas identified under the CPA as a transitional
area subject to a special protocol. The state is located in central east Sudan,
between latitude 9° 30 and 12° 30 North and longitude 33° 5 and 35° 3 East. It

7
borders Ethiopia to the east, Upper Nile State to the west and south, and Sennar
State in the north. The capital city of the state, Ad Damazin, is some 550 km south
east of Khartoum on road. According to CRMA GIS measurement (based on CBS
2008 map), the total area of the state is slightly more than 40000 km2.

The state was created in 1994 under the federal government law and it is divided
administratively into six localities / counties:

1. Ed Damazin, capital Ed Damazin (also the capital of the State), is the

smallest and richest locality.
2. Rosaires, capital Rosaires, is economically strategic because of the
hydroelectric Blue Nile River Dam and the Dindir Park. It is mainly a
grazing area and has experienced instability due to intertribal and border
disputes.
3. At Tadamon, capital Boot, is a new locality formed in May 2007 out of
Damazin territory. It is covered by farming schemes from the 1970s and is
scarcely populated. It experiences seasonal land disputes.
4. Baw, capital Baw, is a rich grazing area, with unexploited resources in the
Ingessana Hills and oil in the West that cause some disputes over land
and resources.
5. Qeissan, capital Qeissan, is a locality neighboring Ethiopia, rich in gold,
fertile land and grazing areas. It experiences some insecurity over border
disputes, nomadic migration and the presence of small arms. The capital
of the locality remains completely isolated during the rainy season.
6. Kurmuk, capital Kurmuk, is the locality most affected by the war. It is
highly militarized, and was under SPLA control until January 2008. It is
also rich in unexploited resources and remains isolated for half the year.

2.1 The Physical Environment

2.1.1 Topography

Generally, the state is considered a flat plain punctuated by some pockets of small
hills and escarpments in the central, south, and southeastern parts of the state. The
topography of the state has two key implications for farming systems.

First, nearly 80% of the state is below a 2% slope class, which has potential for
mechanized and irrigation agriculture but also risk of flooding. More than 14% of the
landscape is characterized as gentle slope area with 2-5% inclination. The Ed
Damazin, El Rosaries and Tadamon localities are predominantly plains, while the
other localities have diverse landscapes including small mountains.

Second, more than 2/3 of the state lies between 500 and 1000 meters above sea
level. This has important implications for agriculture practices in the state. Generally,
the moisture availability is better in areas whose elevation is above 500 meters.
Dependence on rainfall and low input agriculture are characteristic features of
impoverished areas of in the state, especially Kurmuk locality.

8
Figure 1 Slope classes of the Blue Nile State

2.1.2 Hydrology

The most outstanding natural feature of the state’s landscape is the Blue Nile River,
which rises in Lake Tana in Ethiopia and enters Sudan in the area south of Roseires,
at Eldaim village.

The state is dissected equally by the Blue Nile and White Nile catchments around the
central Ingessana hills. The eastern slope carries intermittent rivers and streams that
drain towards the Blue Nile while the western ones flow towards the While Nile.

The Rosaries dam, built in 1961, forms an artificial lake that extends from Damazin

9
town to the Ethiopian border covering a total area of 188 km2 and containing up to 3
billion m3 of water. Prior to completion of the Merowe dam, this reservoir was the
major source of hydroelectric power generation capacity of Sudan. Its economic and
strategic importance has made the state a place of political struggle, both during the
period of armed conflict and now. Other than hydroelectric power generation, the
reservoir is put to no significant use. Some fishing and irrigation agriculture is
practiced along the shores.

2.1.3 Climate

Blue Nile state lies in the tropical climate zone, which is characterized by high
temperatures and heavy rainfall. The average daily temperature ranges from 31
degrees in summer to 22 degrees in winter. The annual rainfall average is around
700 mm, with heavier rainfall in the southern part of the state.

Rainfall is probably the most important factor determining the agricultural livelihood of
the people. In the rain fed farming sector, early maturing sorghum varieties are
cultivated in the north of the state where annual rain fall does not exceed 700 mm,
while the late maturing varieties are found in the south of the state. Pastoralism
activities concentrate in the north and centre of the state. In the southern part of the
state, selling wood and bamboo are important sources of income for rural people
together with petty trade on food crops (sorghum) and cash crops (sesame and
groundnut).

An estimation of Mean Annual Rainfall in mm per locality (for 1971 – 2000, adapted
from SIFSIA/FAO 2008) confirms that the southern part of the state receives more
rainfall than its northern neighboring localities.

Table 1: Rainfall by locality

Locality Estimated rainfall (mm)
El Rosaries 699
Ed Damazine 619
El Tadamon 590
Geissan 724
Baw 652
El Kurumuk 760

2.1.4 Soils

The soils in Blue Nile are predominantly clay soil, which are the soils most suited to
agriculture. All of the major mechanized and irrigated agriculture farms cultivate on
this soil. According to FAO soil classification nomenclature, soils in Blue Nile state
are categorized as follows:

Vertisols (eutric and dystric)

Vertisols are the most common soils in the state (see Map 2 below for geographic
distribution of soil types). They are heavy clay soils in flat areas, with a pronounced
dry season during which they shrink and have deep cracks in a polygonal pattern.
They have fairly good agricultural potentialities, with nearly 94% of the Large Scale
Farming Scheme holdings land on this kind of soil. However, the soils present some
difficulties. Land preparation is difficult, dry soils are hard and wet soils are sticky, so
that the moisture condition of the surface layer is only during a short period
favourable to prepare land. Since the permeability of the subsoil is very low, very
often these soils are flooded or have stagnant water during the rainy season. Rooting

10
depth might be restricted because of the swelling and shrinking properties of the soil.
Free CaCo3 is often present as nodules in the profile, so that when precipitation is
limited, salinity problems might occur. Because of the low permeability and the
difficult drainability of the subsoil, it is very difficult to improve such soils.

Figure 2 Distribution of soil units

Fluvisols (eutric and calcaric)

Fluvisols are generally good agricultural soils and often intensively used, although
land use has to be adapted to seasonal flooding. Along the Khor Dolyb in the west
and all the way from Damazine along the Blue Nile river, this soil covers 3.7% of the
total area.

11
Chromic Luvisols
These soils cover insignificant area in Blue Nile. They are found at the hill bottoms in
some pockets of land around Ullu and the southern peripheries of the Dindir Park.
Luvisols have good agricultural potentialities. Base saturation is high and they have
weatherable minerals. In some cases permeability might be low, and drainage and
good root distribution can be hindered. Along the Blue Nile River, banana and other
fruits orchard and vegetable farms are cultivated on these soils.

Humic Nitosols
Nitosols are deep, clayey red soils that cover some 2.6% of the state’s area. They
are found on almost flat to sloping terrain in high rainfall areas along the Ethiopian
border. They have rather good potentialities for agriculture, with a uniform profile,
porous quality, a stable structure and a deep rooting volume. Their moisture storage
capacity is high.

Hapic Alisoils
These soils are acidic, poorly drained and thus prone to aluminum toxicity and water
erosion. Area along the foot of the mountains where the Blue Nile River enters Sudan
and large swath north of it are predominantly covered by these soils. Liming and
fertilization are essential to their agricultural use, primarily for growing maize,
sorghum or cotton.

2.1.5 Vegetation and Land Use

Rich savannah trees and shrubs dominate the vegetation cover of Blue Nile state
and woodland/forests occupy about 26% of the state area, making the state one of
the richest in forests and grazing lands. The woodlands in the state are characterized
by a large presence of Acacia seyal and Balanites aegyptica tree species. Before the
vegetation cover was fragmented into a mosaic patch of tree clusters, small scale
farms, large scale agricultural schemes and open shrub lands, large part of the state
was covered by vast woodlands.

Large tracts of savanna range lands, with significant tree density cover, have been
cleared in recent years for large scale semi mechanized agriculture. Yearly fire
destroys considerable amounts of natural vegetation. These fires are mostly lit by
pastoralists to suppress bushy vegetation and promote the growth of fresh grass for
their cattle.

Deforestation took place during the war throughout the State, reducing forests by
almost 75%, with small parts remaining mainly in the North-western Dindir National
Park1 and some southern parts of the state, particularly SPLA controlled areas.
Drought in the 1980s also resulted in desertification in the West. CRMA data shows a
cluster of community perceptions of deforestation risk in Baw, which confirms this
threat to development. As a result of desertification in the West and war in the South,
the eastern part of Blue Nile became the main supplier of the wood production for
northern markets.

1
The park, which takes the name of a seasonal river flowing from Ethiopia, was registered in 1935 as a
wildlife reserve; its dimensions expanded in 1986 and in 2002.

12
Figure 3 Land Cover Distribution

According to CRMA’s GIS analysis based on the map provided and later verified by
the State Ministry of Agriculture, Bureau of Investments and Agriculture projects
administration, one quarter of the entire state is occupied by large scale farms. This
is the allocated land for investors, which does not necessarily mean the land is under
any form of productive land use at the moment. Of these 10478 km2 (2.6 million
feddan) of land allocated to farmers, more than 51% has been reallocated to small

13
scale farmers as some of the investors could not start the full investment as agreed
when they received the land.

Further, the State is rich in minerals and oil, particularly in the hilly areas of Kurmuk,
Giessan, Bow and Roseires (Ingessana Hills), where local communities mine gold in
their traditional quarries. Chromites and mangnetite are also available in the
Ingessana Hills, but have not yet been fully exploited. Oil concessions in the North-
West part of the State, in Khor Adar (block 7) and in the North (block 8), have not
been exploited yet. All oil resources are national, according to the CPA.

2.2 Population

2.2.1 Demography

The state population is estimated at 832,112 (Sudan Census 2008) with an annual
growth rate of 3%.The average family size is 5 and average population density is 21
people / km². Women represent 47% of the population; people between the ages of
6 and 24 represents 46.4% of the population, making Blue Nile State one of the
youngest states in Sudan. 74.3 % of the population lives in rural areas, making a
living either as small farmers or as seasonal labor in large mechanized schemes.
Livestock raising, traditional gold mining and trading are also common livelihoods.

Table 2: Population by locality

P o p u lat io n   P o p u la tio n  D e n sit y 
T o ta l
U n d e r 1 6 (p e o p le/ k m 2 )
R o se ir e s   2 1 5 ,8 5 7             1 1 4 ,7 9 3 2 5 .8 6
D a m azin   2 1 2 ,7 1 2            1 0 2 ,8 3 8 1 0 9 .4 6
T a da m o n      7 7 ,6 6 8               3 8 ,6 5 3 9 .1 8
Bau   1 2 7 ,2 5 1              6 7 ,8 9 8 1 6 .6 3
G e iss an      8 7 ,8 0 9              4 6 ,2 7 8 2 4 .1 4
K urm u k   1 1 0 ,8 1 5              5 7 ,8 7 8 1 0 .4 1
B lu e  N ile  S ta te   8 3 2 ,1 1 2            4 2 8 ,3 3 8                           2 0 .4 5
Source: Blue Nile State Census Bureau of Statistics 2008

The population figures for BNS are still contested. The table below reports figures
obtained from the state directorate of immunization. The differences between these
figures and those reported by the census bureau (above) are significant.

Table 3: Children under 5 by locality

Children under 5 Total population
Damazin 47,840 300,881
Rosaires 55,004 345,937
Bau 26,131 164,346
Kurmuk 51,705 325,189
Geissan 20,572 129,384
Tadamon 19,271 121,201
Total 220,523
1,386,937
Source: Directorate of Children Immunization, Blue Nile State. Polio Campaign Report 2009

14
2.2.2 Ethnic distribution and migration

Blue Nile state is often called the “small Sudan” since it hosts many Sudanese tribes
living together with indigenous groups. Historically, tribes lived together peacefully
throughout the State as a result of their complementary life style. The interaction has
created social linkages and mixed marriages.

The current unique diversity in the social fabric of Blue Nile state is a result of
continuous waves of migration from other parts of Sudan and abroad, intermingling
with the indigenous tribes over centuries The people of Blue Nile can be classified
into three main population groups: indigenous tribes (Berta, Ingassana, Funj, Hamaj,
Jebalaween, Buroon, Uduk, Ragarig, Kuma, Genza, Surkum, Jumjum, Kedallo,
Gumoz, Wataweet and Dwalla); Northern traders and religious men emigrated during
the Funj Kingdom; and Arab tribes from North and East Sudan who settled in
Geissan, Roseires, Damazin and Kurmuk.

During the late 1960s and early 1970s the agricultural sector witnessed a huge
expansion in rain fed mechanized schemes. As a result, significant numbers of
seasonal agricultural workers (mainly from Darfur and Kordofan) migrated to Blue
Nile and settled permanently in villages near to large commercial farms particularly in
the western areas of Ad Damazin and At Tadamon localities. Ecological deterioration
and drought in Darfur and Kordofan during the 1980s forced more people to migrate
to Blue Nile and other parts of Sudan. Blue Nile also received an influx of
southerners displaced from Upper Nile during the civil war.

Blue Nile has also received influxes of West African tribes, who originally settled in
Western Sudan and then moved eastwards toward Blue Nile, including the Fulani,
Hausa and Barno. There are also a number of tribes living on the border between
Blue Nile and Ethiopia’s Beni Shangol-Gumuz region, who move from side to side of
the border depending on security conditions.

2.3 Poverty and Basic Services

Limited livelihood opportunities, war and displacement have led to a high incidence of
poverty among Blue Nile citizens, coupled with a lack of basic services, particularly
among rural households. According to available records from the Ministry of Social
Affairs and Guidance, 85 % of the state population is below poverty line.

Poverty and the effects of war have resulted in a number of social problems in
families and communities. The numbers of vagrants, orphans, school drop-outs and
child laborers (often in physically demanding work, such as brick loading and off
loading) are increasing. There are also many physically and mentally disabled
people, widows and separated women, and child soldiers / demobilized children.

The economic and social indicators for the population according to the State
Strategic Plan for 2007-2011 are:
• Illiteracy rate: 74.2%
• Malaria infected: 45.6%
• Access to clean water: 23.7%
• Knowledge of aids prevention: 15.7%
• Registration of births: 48.2%
• Maternity mortality rate: 515/100,000
• Under-five mortality rate: 178.2 / 1,000
• Average life expectancy (men): 49

15
 • Average life expectancy (women): 51.2

2.3.1 Health services

Blue Nile State remains the worst among the central Sudan states in health
indicators, particularly in primary health care. Infant and child mortality are higher
than compared to other neighbouring states like Sennar. However the state is making
considerable progress in the provision of child health care (for example, on child
immunization rates). The table below illustrates some health indicators for the state
compared to other central region states.

Table 4: Comparative child health indicators

State Infant mortality Child mortality Sever child mall Children
rate per 1000 rate per 1000 nutrition health care
live birth live birth
Blue Nile 99 88 10 68
Sinnar 62 39 8.9 55.1
Gezira 52 11 4.3 43.0
White Nile 57 35 8.7 46.2
Source: SHHS 2006

According to the SHHS (2006), these high levels of child mortality and morbidity can
be partly attributed to a number of wide-spread bad hygiene practices: open
defecation, improper use and maintenance of latrines, lack of hand washing, and
unhygienic water collection, water storage, food storage and food preparation.

According to the state health authorities, current health facilities fulfil national
standards in terms of size and coverage, but not in terms of capacity and quality of
services (such as availability of well trained medical cadre and adequate equipment).
Furthermore, accessibility to health units is rendered difficult by the absence of roads
and ambulance services (see map indicating walking distance to nearest health
facility).

Table 5: Health facilities by locality

Locality Hospital Health Center Health Unit Total
Damazin 4 9 23 36
Roseires 3 6 48 57
Kurmuk 2 1 35 38
Bow 2 2 35 39
Geissan 2 1 42 45
Tadamon 2 3 07 12
Total 15 22 190 227
Source: Malaria Control Department, State Ministry of Health, BN 2009

Table 6: Medical staff by locality

Locality Speci- Genr- Technicians Med- Health Legal Nurse
Doctor Doctor Assist Visitor Birth
Attendant
Damazin 12 48 NA 10 12 59 155
Roseires 3 NA NA 21 4 186 101
Kurmuk NA 2 1 10 1 36 16
Bow NA 1 NA 3 3 22 25
Geissan NA 2 NA 1 1 66 27
Tadamon NA 4 NA 1 1 NA 06
State Total 15 57 1 65 22 369 330
Source: Department of Health Planning, Ministry of Health, BN 2009

16
Figure 4 Health Facility Coverage, Shortfalls and Density of Perceived Health Facility Gaps

Health risks identified in CRMA community workshops give some insight into the
issues in different areas of the state. The cluster in Kurmuk locality and the three
clusters in the centre of Geissan locality indicate a shortfall in health services, that is
insufficient medical resources, including doctors, for the existing population (not a
total lack of facilities). Along the border between Damazin and Roseires locality, a
cluster of health risks relates partly to shortfalls in health services (insufficient

17
resources), but also to sanitation problems resulting from the housing of livestock in
towns. The clusters of risks in the east of Geissan locality and in the northeast of
Baw locality indicate a complete lack of health facilities.

2.3.2 Water and Sanitation

During the last few years, a considerable improvement has been made in water
supply particularly in the rural areas. The percentage of people who have access to
clean water sources increased from 23% to 40.5 %. The State Government has
identified water and sanitation as a priority issue. State water and sanitation data
shows that the percentage of the state population with access to safe water sources
has increased since 2006. The map below shows that there are 876 hand pumps in
the state (88% functioning, serving 30% of the population), 42 motorised pumps
(89% functioning, serving 23% of the population), and 3 large water supply systems
(all functioning, serving 10% of the population) (UNICEF WES database, 2008).

However, Blue Nile state continues to be one of the poorest states in terms of water
and sanitation facilities. According to SHHS (2006), 59% of people in Blue Nile do not
have access to improved drinking water, mainly in non-urban areas and in the
western parts of the state, and 89% of people do not have adequate sanitation
facilities. Water quality is problematic even in towns like Damazin and Roseires,
where the Water Supply Corporation pumps water directly from the river without any
purification or chemical treatment.

Western parts of the state (At Tadamon locality and some of Baw locality, around
Ulo) experience acute annual water shortages during the dry season (February to
June). Access to safe water sources is very difficult at this time, with people often
walking long distances to fetch water. The At Tadamon locality authority has
sometimes had to resort to tankering water from Damazin. These shortages could be
attributed to climatic changes (shortage of rainfall, drought), the rocky nature of the
area and the existence of land mines and UXOs (which can prevent drilling new
boreholes or water yards).

Low capacity to manage water at the community level and a shortage of spare parts
are key reasons resulting in non-functioning hand pumps. More generally, there is a
significant inadequacy of qualified staff, equipment and supplies on the ground that is
hindering further improvements in this sector. The table below shows the water and
sanitation situation in Blue Nile compared to other neighbouring states:

Table 7: Comparative water and sanitation statistics

State % use improved % using sanitary % of those who using
sources of water means (latrines) improved water and
Sanitary means
Blue Nile 40.5 10.7 5.7
Sinnar 80.7 26.1 23.1
Gezira 77.9 31.9 30.2
White Nile 46.4 31.0 22.5
Source: SHHS 2006

18
Figure 5 Water Supply Coverage, Shortfalls and Density of Non Functioning Water Points

Water-related risks identified in CRMA community workshops give some insight into
the issues in different areas of the state. The cluster along the border between
Damazin and Roseires locality looks much like the cluster of health risks. This is
likely because the reported risks related to water are mainly water-borne diseases
and guinea worm (with some mention of the difficulty to conserve water for the dry
season). The large cluster in Baw locality and smaller one in At Tadamon locality

19
 make reference mostly to seasonal shortfalls in water (during the dry season). The
clusters in Geissan locality and the small cluster in the north of Kurmuk refer to a
complete lack of safe drinking water, with communities reporting poor water
distribution facilities and long distances from safe water sources. It is also worth
noting that among risks relating to shortfalls in basic services (water, health and
education), risks relating to water are the most often cited in the state, which mirrors
the high priority afforded water and sanitation by the State Government.

2.3.3 Basic Education

The education sector in the state has shown some improvement in recent years.

Table 8: Improvements in basic education between 2008 and 2009

2008 2009 % increase
institutions 375 382 2
pupils 111685 117683 5
teachers 4367 4572 4
Source: Ministry of Education progress indicators in basic education, October 2009

Table 9: Improvements in enrolment in basic education between 2002 and 2007:

Year population age 6-13 # of pupils enrolled enrollment percentage
Male Female Total Male Female Total Male Female Total
2002 73565 69472 143037 29411 20660 50011 39.9 29.6 35
2007 78780 74705 153485 56493 42795 99288 71.7 57 64.1
Source: State Education Conference 2009, Working Papers

However, the education sector still faces three key challenges: lack of resources,
high drop-out rates, lack of qualified teachers and the added complication of
administering a dual education system. Resources for schools and teachers remain
low. For example, only 17% of teachers are university graduates and only 20% of
schools have surround walls. Class sizes are reported to be very large. School drop-
out rates, estimated at 39% (Edris 2007) are also a big challenge. Despite the
considerable improvement in basic school enrolment due to the advocacy campaigns
and improvement of school environment the drop out rate is still high (33 %). The
table below shows the dropout rate according to the FMOGE statistical report for
2009:

Table 10: Eastern and Transitional States Out of School Boys and Girls by State 2008-2009
School Year
State Pop6-13 In-school In school In School Out of Out of Out of
Total Boys Girls School School School
Total Boys Girls

Blue Nile 190,837 122,786 68895 53891 68051 29,468 38,583

S Kordofan 337,946 273,102 149121 123981 64844 25,006 39,838
Red Sea 306,725 110,707 62299 48408 196018 119,683 76,335
Kassala 406,758 182,372 105862 76510 224386 126,996 97,390
El Gedaref 319,776 222,083 122548 99535 97693 41,751 55,942
East/Trans 1,562,042 911,050 508,725 402,325 650,992 342,904 308,088
States
North Sudan 6,852,323 4,870,464 2,629,549 2,240,915 1,981,859 980,270 1,001,591
Total
% 23% 19% 19% 18% 33%
(Source: Annual Statistical Report of the FMOGE)

20
The main reasons behind drop-out rates are high rates of child labor (50.2%) and
early marriage (22.1%). This second reason points to the particular difficulties in
assuring access to education for girls, rates of which remain at a significantly lower
level than for boys. The gap percentage between girls and boys in basic education is
29.1 % (Edris2007). The major challenges associated with girls’ drop out from
schools relate to the poor quality and perceived irrelevance of education. Evidence
for poor quality of basic education is in the quality of learning outcomes for children.
To pass the grade 8 examination, a student has to secure at least 50% of marks on
aggregate. The barriers to and the value of girls’ education have been well
documented in the 2004 Knowledge, Attitudes and Practices (KAP) study on Girls’
Education, the 2006 Sudan Household Health Survey (SHHS), the 2007 Situation
Analysis Of Basic Education among Small Population Groups in Blue Nile State and
more recently in the 2007 participatory reviews of the situation of Girls Education in
all 15 States of the north of Sudan.

Perhaps the toughest challenge is the dual educational system. Arabic is the main
language of the state, but due to population displacement during the war, new
languages, mainly English, but also Amharic and Tigris, are common in the state.
There are hence two operating curricula – the Government of Sudan Curriculum,
taught in Arabic and the East Africa Curriculum, taught in English. The SM0E is the
sole service provider in the areas referred to as Northern Kurmuk where one
education system is being applied. However, in the area referred to as Southern
Kurmuk, there is a wide range of school syllabuses, including New Sudan
Curriculum, Ethiopian Curriculum and Kenyan Curriculum, using English as a means
of instruction. In the same area, the SM0E is also present in some schools. Students
who have completed primary school under the East African system face a complete
lack of secondary facilities (DFID, 2008). Attempts at integrating the education
system with a dual Arab-English curriculum have been made, but the system is yet to
be functional. Many believe that an efficient dual system is necessary in the State for
the full integration of returnees and war affected localities. (Kurmuk education
conference 2009). Another challenge is the lack of well trained certified teachers.
According to the report from the Federal Ministry of General Education (FMOGE),
there are more than 200 volunteer teachers who used to be teachers in IDP and
refugee camps during war time. UNICEF has earlier successfully advocated with the
M0F to pay them a monthly incentive of SDG 100. Now, efforts are being pursued to
complete the recruitment of these volunteer teachers within the SM0E.

The other group of volunteer teachers is those doing teaching as part of their military
service period. This table shows number of well trained certified school teachers in
BNS compared to untrained ones

Table 11: Government Teachers by Status of Training and Sex

State/Status Trained Untrained Trained Untrained Total Total
Female Female Male Male Trained Untrained
Blue Nile 705 2517 527 813 1232 3330
South 1657 1800 2257 1200 3914 3000
Kordofan
Red Sea 1624 773 839 441 2463 1214
Kassala 1510 2075 1065 818 2575 2893
Gedaref 1597 1997 1317 862 2914 2859
Total 5 7,073 9,162 6,005 4,134 13,098 13,296
States
Source: FMOGE 2009

21
The provision of education in the state is partly decentralized. The State Ministry of
Education is the planning and implementation body, but education administration at
locality level is responsible for construction of schools, provision and distribution of
leaning materials, teachers' salaries and supporting Parents Teachers Associations
(PTAs). Schools in remote areas are often paid for almost entirely by parents
(including teachers’ salaries), with the resultant exclusion of poorer children (DFID,
2008). Finally an estimated 25% of the total population are from communities that
haven’t been enabled to develop any interest in sending children to school. They
include Ingessana, Kuma-Gunza, Howsa, Fallata, Um-Bararo, Burno and others is
the first and foremost challenge.

Figure 6 Schools Coverage, Shortfalls and Density of Non Functioning Primary Schools

22
Education-related risks identified in CRMA community workshops give some insight
into the issues in different areas of the state. The small cluster along the border
between Ad Damazin and Roseires locality and the multiple clusters in Geissan
locality relate mainly to a lack of education infrastructure (most often no or insufficient
school buildings). The large cluster in the northeast of Baw relates to a lack of
resources in schools (teachers and materials). The scattered clusters in Kurmuk
describe a complete lack of access to education in these areas.

2.4 Economic Situation

Agriculture (farming and livestock) is the main source of income and livelihood for
most rural households in Blue Nile State, with 74.3% of the state population living in
rural areas. The average household farm size is estimated to be less than 5 feddan
(one Jadaa). Sorghum, sesame and groundnuts are the main crops cultivated in dry
land farms while vegetables, maize and fruit trees are the main crops in orchards and
irrigated plots. Traditional rain fed farming supports 90% of rural communities. Early
maturing sorghum varieties are cultivated in the north of the state where annual rain
fall does not exceed 700 mm, while the late maturing varieties are found in the south
of the state. Pastoralism activities concentrate in the north and centre of the state,
while in the south cutting wood and bamboo are the main sources of income for rural
people together with petty trade on food crops (sorghum) and cash crops (sesame
and groundnut). In the hilly areas in Kurmuk, Giessan, Bow and Roseires, local
communities mine gold in their traditional quarries.

Table 12: sources of rural household income

Source of income Percentage of households
Rain fed agriculture 70.1
Horticulture 8.0
Livestock 4.6
Fishing 3.0
Agric- labor 1.2
Non- agric 5.0
Undefined (others) 8.1
Total 100
Source: SPCRP bench mark Survey Report. Blue Nile, March 2009.

Arable lands in Blue Nile State are estimated at 6 million feddan, but current
cultivated land is about 1.5 million feddan. Three types of agriculture can be identified
based on machinery usage in the agricultural operation: mechanized, semi-
mechanized and traditional agriculture. Mechanized farming is done by large
companies and commercial farmers. More common in the state are semi-
mechanized operations that use seasonal labour in weeding and harvesting.
Sorghum, sesame, sun flower and cotton are the main crops of mechanized and
semi-mechanized farming.

Farming studies show that productivity is remarkably low in mechanized farming

operations. At best sorghum and sesame productivity is 2 sacks / feddan. This can
be attributed to fluctuations in rain fall and perhaps more to loss of soil fertility due to
absence of crop rotation. Moreover, using only a disc plough in land preparation for a
long time has led to pulverizing the topsoil and accelerating physical damage and
reducing the humus content. Inadequate pest control and scarcity in seasonal labor
can also affect productivity. However, mehcanized farming tends to produce more
consisten outputs, as it uses irrigation techniques that avoid vulnerability to variable
rainfall.

23
In traditional farming, small plots (1-5 feddan) are cultivated for subsistence
production and can be easily controlled by the farmer and his/her family. Here,
productivity is relatively better than in the mechanized farming sector. Studies show
that sorghum productivity is 5 sacks / feddan and sesame is 2.5 sacks / feddan.
However, this sector does not benefit from agricultural extension, the provision of
improved seeds and tools, or post-harvest facilities (particularly marketing). WFP
reports that many households have unreliable income sources, such as sale of grass,
firewood and food aid, providing them with very limited access to cash and restricting
market purchases to sorghum (WFP, 2008). CRMA workshops identified the sole
dependency on agriculture for livelihood as a threat across the state. They also
identified clusters of severe food security risk in Kurmuk (around the villages of
Yabos, Wadaka, Shima, Shali al Fil and Gambi).

Livestock rearing is the second economic activity for the nomadic population (who
represent about 12% of the state population). This population owns six to eight
million heads of livestock, making the state third in size in terms of animal wealth in
Sudan, following North Kordofan and South Darfur. However, this huge wealth has
little effect on the economic welfare of nomadic communities because they consider
its social value instead of its value as a source of economic returns. Moreover, some
of these herds are made up of animals that yield relatively little meat and milk
produce.

The urban populations of Ad Damazin and Roseires work mainly in the non-
agricultural sector, concentrating in government institutions and private sector. There
are few other livelihood opportunities in the state, given the absence of developed
industrial or services sectors. Despite the presence of natural resources and the
existence of Roseires dam (which generates one third of the hydroelectric power in
Sudan) no significant industrial investments have taken place in the state, mainly
because the poor infrastructure makes investment difficult. Chromium mining in the
Ingessana hills is the only industrial activity that takes place besides traditional gold
mining in some parts of the state (Kurmuk and Roseires localities). Currently the
state has a plan to start investing in the sugar industry, fruit and vegetable canning,
and paper industry to ensure better utilization of the available raw material.

The services sector is growing slowly, with most investment going to national
telecommunication companies. In the state there are four telecom companies
(Sudatel, Zain, MTN and Canar) providing mobile and internet services with networks
that cover approximately 80 % of the state. Media coverage (radio and TV) has also
improved in recent years. Blue Nile radio can be clearly heard anywhere inside the
state and neighbouring states, but local TV hardly reaches beyond a 20 km radius
around Damazin town. Banking and insurance services are concentrated mostly in
Damazin (eight commercial banks and two insurance companies). The Agricultural
Bank of Sudan (ABS) is the only bank that currently has a branch outside Damazin,
in Geissan locality (in Abu Gumai village, 68 km south of Damazin). Continued
insecurity has delayed the reopening of ABS in Kurmuk town. Poor state
infrastructure further hampers development of other potential service sectors, such
as tourism.

The transport infrastructure remains underdeveloped, with most existing transport

linking the state capital to North Sudan. The only asphalt road connects Damazin to
Khartoum (550 km). Roads linking localities with Damazin are unviable in the rainy
season, leaving many of these localities isolated for several months of the year.
There is one airport in Damazin and two airstrips in Kurmuk and Yabos. The State
Government has an ongoing plan to invest some 210 USD million over 15 years in

24
private sector loans to improve roads (Damazin-Kurmuk 165 Km, Damazin-Qeissan
176 Km and Damazin-Menza 106 Km).

UNMAO has certified that major roads in the state have been cleared from
landmines2 but the presence of UXOs is still a threat.

Table 13: Summary of road assessment and road clearance

Total Number of Number of Items Destroyed

Number
Activity Class Length infected
of roads
in Km roads Mines UXO Fragments
Road
Assessment 1856.3 46

Road Clearance 1411.6 22 8 4 13 42

Source: UNMAO, December 2009

Construction of paved roads, rehabilitation of railway lines and investment in building

hotels and recreation facilities are the prerequisites for improvement of the state
agricultural, industrial and tourism sectors, and hence key to economic development
and an improvement in livelihood opportunities.

Livelihood-related risks identified in CRMA community workshops give some insight

into the issues in different areas of the state. In Baw locality, communities reported
that outside investments in agriculture and mining often do not benefit the local
population (and can lead to communities outright refusing investment. Around the
locality capital, there is a concentration of risks relating to high unemployment, often
the result of high illiteracy especially among youth, lack of skills and work experience,
ultimately resulting in migration. In Geissan, livelihood risks are largely related to a
lack of agriculture equipment and difficulty in marketing products. In Kurmuk and the
southern area of Roseires, unemployment is a particular problem of the returnee
community, with unemployment rates soaring up to 75%.

2.5 The Status of Women

Women represent 47% of the state population, about 30-40 % of the total labour
force in the public and private sectors and 50-60 % of agricultural labour. Formally
there are two women’s institutions: the General Union for Sudanese Women and the
Women’s Labour Association. The percentage of women in the legislative council is
15-20% and two women represents the state at the National Assembly in Khartoum.

Women face two major constraints in Blue Nile. First, they often have difficulty
accessing agricultural lands and credit. Women have less access than men to
productive resources such as land, markets to sell products, finance and financial
institutions and inputs to improve productivity. Some women are now organized into
cooperatives to receive small grants from a savings bank. Second, the norms and
traditions that control rural life and the availability of basic services do not favour
women. Parental attitudes and socio-cultural practices also tend to militate against
girls’ participation in education. The 2004 study showed that in many communities
the traditional roles of women and girls in reproduction and nurturing of children
remains unchanged. This influences household decisions on who goes to school and

2
UNMAO operates in Rosaires, Qeissan, Baw and Kurmuk (no landmines were denounced in Damazin
and Attadamon).

25
for how long. Women are especially affected by the combined effects of war, early
marriage and traditional customs. (20.8 % according to SHHS 06) and traditional
customs (polygamy marriage which represents 29.3%). This is one of the reasons for
high maternal and under-five deaths in Sudan. The practice of early marriage often
leads to the end of a girls' formal education. Early withdrawal from school to domestic
and farm work is common. Due to chronic poverty and the disruption of the social
fabric due to conflict, there are some changes in some gender roles and
responsibilities. Women shoulder the burden of much of the farm labour, and
therefore have little time for domestic duties. This has led to high levels of illiteracy,
high rates of poverty among rural women, lack of access to primary health care and
some harmful practices (FGM rate is 58.2 % according to SHHS 20006).3 The
administration is willing to assist women and girls against negative traditional
practices, but has no capacity to enforce, and often the support does not answer to
the needs expressed by the women themselves.

According to a social study carried out by department of social welfare in 2006

divorced, widowed and separated women represent 34 % of all women in the state,
as shown below. This is a particular concern as female-headed households tend to
have fewer livelihood opportunities, and suffer disproportionately in times of
economic uncertainty and crisis.

Table 14: Marital status

Marital Status Percentage
Single 23
Married 43
Divorced 13
Widow 14
Separate 7
Total 100
Source: interview with director of social welfare, MoSAG Blue Nile State 2009

Another report produced by the Child Protection Program Unit of the State Ministry of
Social Welfare in 2007 shows that the situation of rural Blue Nile women and girls is
strongly shaped by social norms which support widespread discrimination. Major
elements/determinants in this respect are:
• Women are generally regarded as subordinate to their male counterparts,
have less voice, less autonomy, fewer opportunities and lowered self-esteem,
from childhood to old age. Scarce resources are less likely to be directed to
their needs. The deprivations and suffering they face are not fully taken into
account, and the significant contribution they make to household is
undervalued;
• Although they are the principal caregivers to children, the quality of their
parenting is affected by their level of education and their ability to participate
in decision making;
• The household and social values related to the position of women in the
household or in society form a powerful part of children's learning and
development, tending to reinforce the norms for future generations. Women
are subjected to widespread discrimination. Some of the discrimination is
caused by deeply entrenched traditional norms but increasingly by changes to
household structures, and gender roles and responsibilities, resulting from

3
Information on critical issues comes from the focus group that CRMA ran with the participation of the
Umbrella for Women’s Development (health, education and HIV awareness), the Adviser to the Wali on
women’s issues, the Women’s League Liberation Movement, SPLM, Women’s Labor Union, Nomad
Union representatives.

26
 chronic poverty;
• While women are among the hardest working in rural communities, and are
usually responsible to put food on the table, social taboos on women's
behavior and on the type of work they are able to carry out has restricted their
access to a decent livelihood preventing them from maintaining their assets;
• The structure of Blue Nile society has changed as a result of intergenerational
chronic poverty and the decades old conflict. In spite of that, the extended
family institution has not disintegrated although its nature is changing. The
elderly, especially elderly women, and the young, are increasingly playing a
critical role in caring for children orphaned after the death or the
“disappearance” of the children's father. Violence against women is one
social mechanism which perpetuates women's subordinate position in relation
to men. The extent of gender-based violence (GBV) is difficult to know as few
incidents are reported either because the women fear reprisals, are ashamed,
expect to endure violence at the hands of male family members, or feel that
there is no one of trust to report to. FGM/C, with a prevalence rate of 58.2%
among women aged 15-49 years (Sudan Household Health Survey, 2006),
represents a clear form of GBV manifestation.

A change in male-female relationships would address some of the vulnerabilities and

improve the chances of women and gils to better participate in recovery and
rehabilitation.

2.6 State Funding

The supply of basic services throughout the State is severely affected by lack of
resources. The central Government increased released funds for war affected areas
in 2007, and Blue Nile has a representative in the FFAMC to follow up4. However the
share of funds received by FFAMC in 2008, was 6.4 %, (some 12 million USD out of
the 60 million USD)5. Another 2.5 million USD were received in August 2008, on the
occasion of the visit of President Bashir for the opening ceremony of the heightening
of the Rosaires Dam6. Blue Nile was further entitled 175 million SDG over 3 years
(starting 2006) from the NRDF. A clear updated overview of fund transfers to Blue
Nile by the Ministry of Finance might be of use7. Beyond funds provided by the
central Government, income of the State comes from fees over land, animals, forest
and agricultural products. As for international contributions, the State affirms that the
MDTF is not fully functional and disbursement is slow. The CHF has served better,
but has a short term perspective.8 In-kind funding from UN agencies and international
NGOs (provision of basic services and training) has a considerable effect on the
state budget. According to the state strategic planning council the international
community contributes 43 % of the total state's achievements (MoF Annual report
2009)

The majority of funds received in 2005, 2006, 2007 were used for maintaining the
civil service (around 1000 persons).

4
AEC Mid Term evaluation report of 9th July 2008
5
See FFAMC report and figures.
6
Even if that situation concern all northern States, as there is lack of transparency and clarity over the
criteria of allocation of funds from GoNU, Blue Nile situation is still peculiar, with the least amount of
funds received after River Nile.
7
AEC Mid Term Evaluation report of 9th July 2008
8
Stability and Development in the Three Areas, ODI/DFID report for Donors steering committee, April
2008

27
3. Conflict and Peace in Blue Nile

3.1 Political History of Blue Nile

The political development of Blue Nile State goes back to the early sixteenth century.
In 1504-5 the Funj-Arab alliance overthrew the Alawa Christian kingdom in Soba and
established the Funj Kingdom, al-Saltana al-Zarqa (the black sultanate), in Sennar.
Like other parts of the Sultanate, Blue Nile enjoyed autonomous rule throughout its
five Meshyakhat (Sheikhdoms): Roseires, Fazogoli, Kaili, Goli and Olu.

In 1821, the Turko-Egyptian army conquered the Funj kingdom and established a
centralized state for the first time in northern Sudan. Blue Nile became one of the
first six Mudeeriah (provinces): Fazogoly province, with its capital at Famaka (now a
small village in Geissan locality) initially, and then at Roseires from 1837. Mohamed
Ali Pasha’s main reason to conquer Sudan was to exploit its resources in order to
build his Empire. In Blue Nile, this resulted in an increase in slave raiding and trading,
gold mining and the collection of tributes.

Following its defeat of the Turks, the Mahdist state kept the administrative divisions
of the Turkish state, and continued slave trading. The Anglo-Egyptian rule that
followed the Mahdist state divided Sudan into fourteen provinces. Blue Nile province
was then administered from Wad Medani. In 1920, the British introduce the Closed
Districts Ordinance (CDO) in some parts of the country to guarantee full separation
between the North and South. The CDO required that people from the North hold a
permit to travel to the South. The Ingessana hills and some southern parts of Kurmuk
were treated under this ordinance.

There were no administrative changes in Blue Nile after independence in 1956.

Between 1958 and 1964, following Ibrahim Abood’s military coup in 1958, Roseires
Dam was built in order to hold water for a planned expansion in irrigated schemes in
Rahad and Kenana, in central Sudan. The State's elderly still recall those days
bitterly, as hundreds of households were forced to leave their homes and seek new
safe settlements.

The May 1969 coup brought Nimeiri to power. In 1972, Nimairi signed the Addis
Ababa peace agreement, ending the war and giving South Sudan the right to
establish a regional government with full autonomy. Nimairi’s violation of the peace
agreement in 1983 and his introduction of Sharia’ law started a second North-South
civil war. Blue Nile was not a part of this war initially, but when the SPLA changed its
fighting strategy to expand the war to the north, some people from Blue Nile and
South Kordofan joined the SPLA. Kurmuk and some towns on the border between
Ethiopia and Geissan locality changed hands between the SBN/SPLA and the
government several times between 1987 and 1997.

3.1.1 Native Administration and Land Use

There are four historic chiefdoms, or makships, in Blue Nile: Guli (Damazin and
Attadamon, part of Baw), Rosaires (eastern bank of the Nile, now Rosaires locality),
Keli (Kurmuk) and Fasugli (Qeissan and part of Baw). The traditional Native
Administration is therefore composed of 4 Maks (Rosaires mak is now the paramount
chief), four Omdas for each makship, and a number of Sheiks for each Omda, who
are the direct link to the people. The Maks inherit their rights by blood, upon formal
approval of the Omdas, whose elections is done by the Sheiks. The Mak election is
endorsed by the Wali, or at a lower level by the Commissioners.

28
Relations between the State and the native administration were historically good. The
Native administration authorities covered the judiciary, the security, and the
supervision of water and of range and pastures resources. The Mak is the
Commissioner’ interlocutor as the Native Administration facilitates some of its
functions (i.e. tax collection, smuggling control, monitoring of infrastructures and
services, land conservation and demarcation, reporting of incidents). Tribal chiefs
historically mediate to mitigate and solve tribal and individual conflicts. The Omdas
are the administrators of the justice. They chair rural courts and mediate with the
police, applying customary law, based on local traditions and norms, and also special
laws through special jurisdiction courts.

The advent of the first mechanized schemes in the 1970s and the advent of formal
administration first altered the established system and regulations9. The native
administration lost power over the land and the advisory role they held in the past. In
1970, the “Unregistered Land Act’ gave the Government the ownership of any land
that was not privately owned, and in 1971, the ‘Abolition of Native Administration Act’,
finally deprived local communities and tribal groups of ownership, recognizing only
rights of land use10.

The concession of farming schemes in Blue Nile started in the late 1960s in what is
now Attadamon, with the establishment of State farms in the Agadi and Garabeen
areas, with the support of the World Bank. In 1975, the Mechanized Farming
Corporation Ordinance gave official authority to Khartoum to grant licenses to
external farmers. At the beginning these areas were well delineated, the schemes
numbered and villages’ vicinity and cattle routes respected. Following the opening up
of the international market to Sudanese cereal crops (particularly sorghum and
millet), the central government expanded mechanized farming in rain fed agricultural
areas in Blue Nile, South Kordofan (Nuba mountains) and northern parts of Upper
Nile. Consequently, thousands of feddans of fertile lands were distributed to retired
government and military officials, and to big national and Arab commercial
companies (250,000 to Arab Sudanese Agric Co, 168,000 to Sudanese Egyptian
Agric Co, 150,000 to SMA, etc).

In 1984, the ‘Civil Transaction Act’ was passed, as part of the September laws under
the Nimeiri regime. Land now belonged to God, and the Federal State was made
successor and owner of it. All provisions of land registration were then to be
reconsidered and, after several amendments in the 1990s, any legal redress against
the State became impossible11.

3.1.2 Causes of the War

Blue Nile leaders concur that the underdevelopment, inequality and marginalization
experienced by the state throughout its history were the main causes of the war in
the state. Some believe that most post-independence federal governments
purposefully ignored and marginalized the state. Some studies suggest that
increased investment in mechanized farming during the 1970s was one of the causes
of the war. The investment authority in Khartoum allocated land by referring to the
1971 Land Act, which assumed that all unregistered lands in Sudan belong to the
government, who then had the right to distribute them. Thus, indigenous farmers who
had cultivated their customary land for hundreds of years found themselves landless.
The resulting inequality and marginalization led some Blue Nile citizens to take up

9
‘The State is seen as successor to the tribe and State leaders replace tribal leaders’ (Bruce 1989)
10
Prof. Mohamed El Amin Abdelgadir
11
Prof. Ahmed Abdel Ghaffar.

29
arms and fight for their rights to customary land tenure, justice and balanced
development.

This marginalization of the local population continued through the 1990s. In the early
1990s, the central Government allocated State lands to foreign investors taking into
account only their financial situation (not their origin). Vicinity to villages, cattle
routes, type of soil and negative environmental impact were not considered. There
was no consultation with tribal chiefs, and no compensations offered for lost
resources. Economic growth and livelihood opportunities for local communities
became increasingly limited, as many companies employed outsiders (Egyptian or
Sudanese from the North). Farming schemes were not fully mechanized, so local
labourers were often used as seasonal cheap labour, transforming their traditional
subsistence farming.

3.2 Current Political Situation

The signing of the CPA in May 2005 ended the longest civil war in Africa and opened
a new era of peace and development in the country. Southern Kordofan, Abyei and
Blue Nile were treated in the CPA as transitional areas with a special protocol
(Protocol on the Resolution of the Conflict In Southern Kordofan and Blue Nile States
(May 2004)). This protocol grants some degree of power sharing, security reform and
wealth sharing. It establishes a rotating governorship and power sharing formula for
all branches of government (45% SPLM, 55% NCP); there are guarantees that funds
from the central government will be made available; and elections are planned for the
end of the interim period.

The agreement is now approaching its final year of its implementation and interim
period, however both parties feel that people of Blue Nile State are not satisfied with
what has been achieved to date.

3.2.1 Power Sharing

There have been some achievements in terms of power sharing. The rotating
governorship has been established, with the NCP holding office the first 18 months
and the SPLM taking over in July 200712. However, the presence of other political
parties and opposition is weak (NDA, UMMA, North/South Funj, Unionist party,
Communist, Arab Bath), revealing a limited and disorganized civil society. The
State's executive and legislative bodies are in place and functioning well, but the third
pillar, the judiciary system, has still not been redesigned to fit the protocol
requirements. The cooperation between State institutions, on the other hand, is good.
However, they are limited by the capacity of the administration, particularly in war
affected localities (Kurmuk, Baw, and Geissan). Furthermore, the commissions
required by the CPA (the State Civil service and the State Land commissions) have
not been established. At the executive level, integration between the two partners is
artificial, and SPLA elements are not fully integrated in the civil service.

3.2.2 Security Reform

The only considerable integration has been in the army, security and police forces
(although exact figures of SPLA members in these forces are not available). The
6000 JIU troops deployed in the State during the interim period, as a symbol of

12
Turnover was delayed due to late establishment of SKS Government, as rotation was meant to
happen simultaneously.

30
National Unity, are co-located in 8 battalions but not yet integrated, like in the rest of
Sudan. No joint training has happened but SAF-SPLA relations are satisfactory,
since troops often come from the same area. The only reported difficulties were in
Kurmuk, where after SPLA redeployment, the SAF component refused to move into
town because they felt unsafe.

The ceasefire agreement signed on October 15th, 2002, is holding. Assembly areas
were formed in Bikori, Dindiro and Wadabok for SAF and in Ulu, Sali and Ufud
Shatiyo for the SPLA, as per the CPA. In January 2008 the SPLA redeployed
peacefully from Kurmuk to Samari area, 7 km from the border in Southern Sudan
(Upper Nile)13. SAF complained over their final destination, partly due to lack of
clarity over the North/South demarcation. The issue was sent to JDB but has not
been resolved: the area is inaccessible due to continued presence of landmines and
the North/South Border committee reconnaissance phase could not completed. This
dispute over border demarcation with Upper Nile in Kurmuk locality affects the
credibility of SPLA redeployment. Redeployment of SAF outside the state, on the
other hand, has not taken place. Instead of demobilizing SAF, new soldiers are being
recruited.

No OAGs are officially registered in the State but there is a certified presence of PDF
in northern localities: the ‘Mobile Police’ (Shatta Zaina) in Attadamon; the ‘Popular
Police’ (AlShurtta AlShabia), and some elements of the ‘Battalion who never sleeps’,
(Katiba Ma-Yanoom), a group of armed nomadic Fulani tribes. The ‘2 areas
Committee’ of the Parties agreed the OAGs would absorbed in the SAF army by the
end of August 2008.

Finally, the ongoing DDR process is key to finalizing security reform. According to
verbal statements by the State Government the situation regarding DDR in Blue Nile
State is as follows: approximately 4,000 adult ex-combatants14 are expected to be
disarmed and demobilized. In addition 88 SPLA child soldiers have been
demobilized. The figure for women associated with armed forced groups is yet to be
ascertained (only SPLA). In all, 3,500 SAF and PDF ex-combatants and 332 SPLA
were expected to go through DDR processes in 2008. Given the lack of infrastructure
and a weak economic environment, significant challenges are expected during
reintegration.

3.2.3 Wealth Sharing

Issues of land ownership and landuse are the critical wealth sharing concerns in Blue
Nile State. With the CPA, land became the responsibility of the State. The Minister of
Agriculture is reorganizing the land system in the State and has mapped land,
farming schemes and investors. The State has adopted some criteria for allocation of
land resources, such as cancelling licenses for farming schemes not cultivated in the
past 5 years, assessing investor capabilities, introducing divisions with indigenous
farmers, reducing the size of farming schemes allocations to accommodate more
investors, mapping community land reserves and defining gum arabic plantation
areas. The Native Administration is mobilizing communities to reintroduce customary
laws, based on the assumption that people know their rights to use/access the land.
Customary law offices have been established in Damazin and Kurmuk for the
protection of land resources. There are peace and reconciliation committees in all

13
According to the CPA, while SAF redeployment from Southern Sudan was meant to b completed by
9th July 2007, SPLA troops from the North shall withdraw as soon as the JIUs are formed and
functioning.
14
SAF / PDF: 3,500 (Source: NSDDRC), SPLA: 332 (Source: SSDDRC)

31
localities which act as mediators on an ad-hoc basis in case of disputes.

These are all positive developments in implementing the wealth sharing aspects of
the CPA. However, the critical issue for resolving land tenure issues and preventing
disputes that might otherwise emerge is the formation of a State Land Commission
(one of the explicit requirements of the CPA). The formation of a this commission has
not happened and its establishment remains an intractable political issue.

3.3 Threats to Community Stability

This section addresses specific issues that are of concern to policymakers and to the
population of Blue Nile alike: Roseires Dam heightening; dispute between nomads
and pastoralists; dispute between small farmers and large holding farmers;
displacement and return; landmines and UXOs; the limited peace dividend;
urbanization. The issues emerged through CRMA workshops, focus groups and
follow-up interviews.

3.3.1 Roseires Dam heightening

The Rosaries Hydroelectric Dam provides power supply to the central Sudan region
up to Khartoum. The Dam regulates the flow of the Nile and thus has a direct impact
on both the Sudanese and regional economies. The heightening of Roseires dam is
the biggest development project in the state. The project aims to store about 7.5
billion cubic meters of water to irrigate big investment schemes in Kenana and
Rahad. There is some debate about the effect of the heightening on the local
population. Some available information estimates that about 44 villages will be
flooded. Socio-economic studies conducted by local researchers suggest that the
project will affect about 20% of the state’s population directly and up to 50%
indirectly. A UNDP CRMA model designed to predict areas that will be flooded after
the heightening process estimates almost twice the flooded area predicted by the
Dams Implementation Unit.

The dam heightening will put pressure on resettlement operations in the state and
will force a change in the social fabric of the affected areas. Some ethnic groups are
likely to emerge as more dominant; some tribal and native administrates (such as
Hamaj’s Omodiaj) are likely to diminish in importance. The CRMA workshop in the
area of the Dam reported a potential threat to community stability linked to the
expansion of the dam, as forceful relocation of settlements could lead to civil unrest
and violence. The heightening is also likely to damage the biodiversity and dam lake
aqua structure.

Critics of the project believe that there is no clear information about environmental
impacts and no transparency in terms of community participation in the overall
project cycle phase nor in the resettlement process. There is also little
communication and coordination between ministries in planning governmental action
on relocation, compensation and other issues related to the effects of the heightening
project on the local population. In an interview with the director general of Ministry of
Physical Planning who is the state chair man for the follow up committee formed by
the state Wali / governor to coordinate between DIU, affected communities and the
state related authorities, the DG mentioned that they received a booklet showing the
planned resettlement projects. These projects are composed of two sectors: the
housing project and the livelihood improvement project. The CRMA advisor got a
chance to see this booklet, however he received no answer regarding the other
issues like compensations, environmental impact and socio-cultural changes that
might occur because of affected communities merging with existing groups.

32
Figure 7 Expected Expansion of the Roseries Dam Reservoire

State government officials highlight that the project would foster further prosperity
and growth in Sudan. The state governor held a meeting with leaders of those
affected in October 2009, where he declared he was comfortable with the project and
stressed the full co-operation of the state government in developing the Sudan and
the areas affected by the heightening (http://diu.gov.sd/roseires/en/index.php).

The UNDP CRMA team failed to meet DIU in Damazine for more consultation on
these fears and hopes. Information on this critical issue remains a taboo.

33
3.3.2 Dispute between farmers and pastoralists15

Annually, the state police authorities report a number of cases of tension and dispute
between farmers and nomads over field crops and horticultural crops. There are 12
historical migration routes marked, many running parallel to the Nile on both banks,
going southwards in the dry season up to May (Masyaf, summer pasture), to the two
main grazing areas in southern Kurmuk up to Khore Yaboos, and in the big region of
east Baw, Geissan and Rosaires; and northwards from June (Makhraf, autumn
pasture) up to Sennar. 7 khors, or resting areas, of 5km on each side of the rivers,
can also be identified. Historically, nomads crossed Wadabok Khore (Baw) only after
January 1st, and crossed it back by June 30th, leaving farming areas before the
harvest time. Approximately 2 million cattle, 3 million sheep, 300 thousands goats
and 40 thousands camels (figures change every year), move across the land twice a
year.

Farmers claim that they suffer crops losses because of livestock assault and
accidental fires caused by nomads as they pass through. Nomads counter that there
has been an expansion of crop land at the cost of grazing areas. In fact, prior to the
1970s there was no tension between farmers and pastoralists over natural resources
(water and grazing land) because at that time land was abundant and small holding
farmers were able to live on the same land through which animal routes passed.
Routes were opened and supervised by the local authorities with assistance from the
Native Administration. In the 1970s, following expansion of large mechanized farming
and the abolition of native administration in 1971, nomadic groups found themselves
blocked by large farms. This narrowing of migration routes was compounded by
small farmers moving to cultivate on animal routes – the only land not taken up by
large farmers. This provoked continuous expansion/diversion of the routes, as
nomads looked for grazing areas and water points (the main khors and hafirs fell
within farming schemes). Old routes were abandoned, without previous consultation
with locals and relevant stakeholders, resulting in disputes between locals, nomads
and farmers. The loss of power of the native administration contributed to the
growing of disputes, as the old system of monitoring, demarcation and dispute
regulation was no longer in place.

The war also altered the historic equilibrium of land access and land use between
sedentary communities and nomads. Community identification with either of the two
major actors in the war added an ethnic and political dimension to the dispute
between farmers and pastoralists, and created grievances and hostile attitudes that
today represent an obstacle to finding solutions that could ensure sustainable
peaceful coexistence. With the onset of the North/South conflict in Blue Nile in 1985,
the intensity of disputes between nomads and locals reached its climax as
pastoralists were denied access to traditional grazing sites at the upper parts of the
migratory routes16. The SPLA blocked the routes south of Baw (at the Ingessana
Hills) and Geissan, forcing nomads to roam in the areas of Attadamon and North
Rosaires, concentrating along the Nile and going towards Ethiopia. The higher
frequency of interactions, scarcity of resources, ecological hazard (deforestation) and
dessertification of the land in the resting areas provoked new disputes in the north
and in the central string of the state that had not been an issue before the war. The

15
The Head of the Planning Department (ElHadi Hassan) expressed a divergent view from that outlined
in this section. He writes: “The current slogans raised by some of ethnic groups in the state is new and
just a movement against the the existence of Arab and northern Sudanese tribes who owned these land
through official licenses and cultivated it for tens of years. From my own point of view I can say that
conflict over land due to violation of customary rights for the indigenous communities remains a vague
story and some thing that just appear recently after signing of the CPA.”
16
Prof. Mohamed Elamin Abdelgadir

34
areas of Bout and Wadabok were particularly affected. Furthermore, nomads
concentrating in reduced grazing areas and on narrower routes intensified disputes
among different pastoral groups in key water points and over grazing land, especially
in the east (Rosaires).

The war also altered dispute intensity as more arms were brought in. The Fellata
tribe are were heavily armed and played a major role during the war. Proliferation of
weapons within these communities is still high and the nomadic routes of Fellata are
conflict prone as they interact with farmers.

An additional reason for dispute is that the herd sizes have gradually increased over
the past decades, resulting in a vicious circle: extra cattle require expansion of
nomadic routes, which on the contrary have become narrower, and the bigger the
herd size, the higher the cost for vaccination and animal fodder, therefore the need
for more cattle to sell.

The CRMA map below offers a synthesis of community perceptions of nomadic /

pastoralist disputes in the state. The map broadly shows that dispute over land tends
to occur away from densely populated areas, along migration routes and on the
border with mechanized farms. Roseires, Baw and parts of Geissan show a
concentration of community identified threats. These areas are also reported to have
concentrations of SALW proliferation among the civilian population. CRMA workshop
participants report that most disputes are seasonal (coinciding with harvest periods
between October and December), and can be typified into six categories:
1. Low level, high frequency disputes between nomads and farmers in the
northern/eastern areas associated with damage to plantations and over lack
of water and land access;
2. Low level disputes between nomads and Dindir Park authorities over land
access17;
3. Medium/high intensity of disputes between nomad groups in the eastern Blue
Nile, mainly, over lack of water and grazing land;
4. High intensity, but limited, recent disputes between Fellata and communities
over land access in Geissan and north Kurmuk as nomads move southwards,
after the CPA;
5. High intensity, but limited, recent disputes between Fellata and SPLA soldiers
in north Kurmuk (Ulu and Malkan);
6. High intensity, but limited, cross border dispute between nomads and
Ethiopian militias (from Rosaires), limited but possibly expanding out of
Kurmuk.

17
Dindir Park in North-East Rosaires is a wildlife reserve, under national control. Its expansion in the
last years has resulted in conflicts over land access between nomads and the park administration as the
area included in the park was an important dry season grazing land for pastoralist.

35
Figure 8 Large Scale Farms and Seasonal Livestock Migration Routes

Both sides agree that demarcation of livestock routes, improvement of grazing lands
and development of mediation mechanisms between the parties are important in
reducing farmer – nomad friction.

Finally, the reduction in pastoralist resources illustrated above has led to an overall
deterioration in pastoral conditions, Many nomads are therefore faced with the
challenge of developing adaptable and flexible livelihood strategies. The lack of land

36
and the adaptive nature of the nomads are creating a new tendency to settle and
start alternative economic activities, and social behaviour is already changing18. This
may lead to new threats to stability, including difficulties in access to basic services .

3.3.3 Dispute between small farmers and large holding farmers

Disputes between small farmers and big commercial agricultural schemes arise when
boundaries of large mechanized scheme overlap with village buffer zones. Village
buffer zones are the 4km radius around a village that (according to the state buffer
zone law) should be kept for the usage of agro-forestry activities and should not be
allocated for agricultural investment. Villages near big mechanized farms are
vulnerable to the illegal expansion of commercial farms at the cost of their buffers.
Owners of large mechanized farms have defeated villagers’ claims by stating that the
agricultural authorities and the surveying office have given them the land without
making the necessary demarcation of the village buffer zone. The State Ministry of
Agriculture, the Native Administration and the Farmers’ Union all recommend two
corrective procedures to reduce this dispute: (i) increase the buffer zone to at least 7
km radius, and (ii) clearly demarcate it prior to land allocation for agricultural
investment.

3.3.4 Displacement and return

During the last two decades, Blue Nile State has experienced two waves of
displacement and return. The first took place in 1987, when the SPLA occupied
Yabos, Kurmuk and Giessan towns in the southern part of the state. Hundreds of
civilians fled to safe areas inside the state and to Ethiopia. IDPs from Kurmuk and
Yabos settled in Damazin, Giessan IDPs settled in Roseires, the remaining
IDPssettled in villages near to their origins (such as Dindro and Bulang). After the
government army took Kurmuk and Giessan back, some IDPs returned home. Others
left some of their family members in Damazin and Roseires and sent young people
home to cultivate farms, engage in petty trade and cut wood and bamboo.

1997 witnessed the second assault of the SPLA on Yabos, Kurmuk and Giessan. At
the same time, NDA forces captured the Kedallo area in the southeast of Roseires
locality. An estimated 120,000 IDPs and refugees resulted from this situation.
(Abdalla, 2007). After the end of the civil war in 2005, some IDPs and refugees went
home with assistance from UNHCR, IOM and international NGOs. From 2006 to
date, about 2,973 IDPs and 20,962 refugees have returned home in Blue Nile state
(see the table below).

Table 15: UN/IOM organized IDPs and Refugees return 2006-2009:

IDPs Refugees Total
2006-07 2008 2009 total 2006-07 2008 2009 total Returnees
2973 0 0 2973 16047 4816 99 20962 23935
Source: UNMIS, RRR. Statistical Overview 2009

Return, resettlement and reintegration are highly sensitive issues to the

establishment of peace and security. In particular, to achieve peace it is crucial to
resolve issues of land tenure that have arisen as a result of displacement and return.
When Kurmuk citizens were displaced to Damazin, the government allocated
residential land for all IDPs and provided them with essential services. Some

18
See ‘Transforming pastoralism: a case study of the Rufa’a al Hoi Ethnic Group in Blue Nile State’,
Ahmed 2008, and ‘Pastoralist-State Relationship among the Hadendowa Beja of Eastern Sudan’, Leif
Manger, 2001.

37
Damazin citizens claimed that this land had been their small farms and requested the
government pay them compensations. The IDPs on the other hand noted that they
have no access to agricultural land because it belongs to Damazin citizens, forcing
most of them to work as cheap agricultural labor. In Kurmuk, returnees went home to
find other Blue Nile tribes living in their houses. The new settlers refused to leave,
saying that returnees have no rights to their houses and belongings because they
fled to Damazin instead of defending their rights. The state Governor has ordered
new settlers to return the houses to their owners, and promised to give each family of
new settlers a piece of land inside Kurmuk town. At the time of writing, no
considerable action has been taken to solve this issue.

Figure 9 IDPs and Returnnes

38
Another issue of concern is the willingnes of refugees and IDPs to voluntarily return.
Studies show that most IDPs, particularly those who spent more than ten years in the
towns and cities they fled to, find it very difficult to return to their old villages. Many of
these villages do not provide basic services. Futhermore, many young IDPs were
born and grew up in urban areas, so they have no strong ties to their origins and
prefer to stay in towns where there are better opportunites for education and
employment (Abdalla, 07). The government will have to find ways to motivate this
displaced rural youth to go back to their remote areas and participate in their
development. The total number of IDPs and refugees who could be returning to Blue
Nile State is estimated in the range of 165,000-200,000 people. Most of them could
be coming back home in a spontaneous manner and probably in the form of mass
movement.

Finally, returns are having a big impact on the demographic ratio and economic
sustainability of Damazin and Kurmuk localities, the major destination areas. High
concentrations of landmines affect the return of IDPs and refugees in Southern Blue
Nile and development in the area. Basic services, already stretched beyond capacity,
are inadequate to meet the needs of these returning populations.

3.3.5 Land mines, UXOs and the lack of integrating infrastructure

During the civil war (1987-2005), the parties fought for control of many strategic parts
of the state. Both SAF and SPLA made heavy use of UXOs and land mines to stop
movements of the other faction. This resulted in blockage of vital roads and areas of
the state. Land mines and UXOs continue to block access to roads, water resources,
farming and pasture. Kurmuk is the most affected locality, followed by Bow, Geissan
and Roseires.

Beyond the immediate safety concerns, the presence of landmines and UXOs is a
further threat to stability because it hinders the development of integrating
infrastructure. Poor infrastructure, especially roads are a source of instability,
because the absence of communication entrenches isolation and under-
development, especially in war-affected areas. This isolation hinders peacebuilding
by making social integration physically impossible. Particularly, the isolation and lack
of integration of former SPLA-areas (especially Kurmuk, but also Geissan) with the
rest of the state reinforces resentment. Northern Blue Nile connects to and benefits
from the economic vitality of Sennar, Wad Medani and Khartoum, while southern and
south-eastern Blue Nile languishes.

39
Figure 10 Perceived SALW Threats

3.3.6 Limited peace dividend

There is widespread concern that many people in Blue Nile misunderstand the
provisions for a popular consultation in the CPA (and thus their option to join the
south), especially in former SPLA-controlled areas. The false expectation of these
communities mix dangerously with the lack of peace dividends they have received.

40
In Kurmuk, pressing human development challenges (infant mortality is highest in
northern Sudan, PHC coverage is only 40%, illiteracy is near worst in the country,
only 40% are in primary school education) and economic development deficits (lack
of vocational/technical training, limited agricultural capital, few passable rural roads)
are thus also burning political grievances.

In general, and despite the ‘special attention’ granted by the CPA, there have been
extremely limited peace dividends accruing to the people of Blue Nile. This is
especially so in the most war-affected areas, that are also experiencing high
numbers of returnees. The present calm depends upon people’s patience and their
belief in the promise of peace.

3.3.7 Urbanization

Damazin and Roseires, the main towns in the state, suffer from all the classical
symptoms related to rapid urbanization, such as lack of livelihood opportunities, high
prevalence of insecurity in the shanty settlements around the town, lack of capacity
to effectively handle garbage and human waste, and limited capacity to absorb the
increased demand for health and education services. A number of environmental
threats result from such rapid urbanization (water and land pollution, spread of water
related diseases (malaria), floods during the rainy season) and are compounded by
the population’s lack of environmental and health awareness.

3.3.8 High rate of unemployment

As a result of the war, many children have missed their chance to go to school due to
adverse conditions and displacement. Their right to enjoy primary education has
been widely violated. In addition to that poverty, poor school environment and
irrelevance of the formal curriculum to community social needs and necessities has
resulted into poor enrollment and retention rates, so a considerable number of youth
failed to achieve any kind of education and most of them lack the basic knowledge,
social and vocational skills needed for acquiring a sustainable livelihood. The
provision of vocational and basic business skills training in specific economic sectors,
especially to vulnerable groups such as youth, women and ex-combatants, would
contribute to the improvement of employability and creation of income generating
alternatives.

An entire generation has had very little access to education, trapping current young
people into a vicious circle of poverty, illiteracy, unemployment and social exclusion.
Their chance to enjoy decent work is very low as they are not equipped with any kind
of livelihood skills which in turn creates more social ills particularly poverty,
marginalization, low self-esteem, moral degradation, decomposition of family, and
disruption of social fabric. Unemployment should be consider as a ticking time bomb
and soon could generate violence especially in communities recently emerging from
war and characterized by widespread availability of weapons.

The opening up of Sudanese markets following the CPA is generating public and
private investment and job opportunities are expected to rise in the medium term. As
the peace process consolidates, the demand for labor not only expands but rapidly
changes from non-skilled to semi-skilled and better skilled. Many young people are
needed in different sectors, such as civil work, agriculture and construction.
Contractors operating in BNS have repeatedly expressed difficulties in finding
workers with basic skills. Provision of livelihood and vocational skills is essential to
enable young people in BNS to compete for employment opportunities.

41
Furthermore, other opportunities in self-employment are opening up as the result of
increasing access to financial services supported by microfinance initiatives
endorsed by government to support vulnerable groups and as a central component of
the poverty reduction strategy. Training of eligible candidates for financial services is
essential and providing them with technical and vocational skills plays a crucial role
in their success. The state ministry of finance has opened new department of
microfinance but efforts to encourage formation of saving and credit associations,
productive cooperatives and saving groups are still absent. No attempts have been
made to disseminate awareness messages to further promote involvement of
individual, community-based and grass root organizations especially in remote and
rural areas. The sector is faced with many constraints and challenges including the
limited financial resources allocated to microfinance and lack of entrepreneurship
development institutions. If peace is to be sustained the international communities
should focus on these two issues – skills for employment and access to financial
services - besides the focusing on land tenure and basic infrastructure.

3.3.9 High rates of HIV / AIDS

Blue Nile state is one of the states experiences considerable HIV positives cases.
The available information from the voluntary diagnosis centers in Damazin and
Rosaries’ hospitals is alarming:

Number of People Living With HIV/AIDS 257

Number of Orphans due to AIDS 36
Number of Orphans Receiving Care 18
No. of Deaths Due to AIDS (2007) 15

Table 16: distribution of HIV/ AIDS

Source: Dept of HIV/ ADIS, SMoH 2009

42
4. Conclusion

Blue Nile state is at a critical juncture. Timely implementation of the CPA and the
special protocol for the state is essential in consolidating peace. At the same time,
attention should be paid to addressing the root causes of the conflict in Blue Nile –
marginalization, poverty and insecurity over land tenure. To prevent the development
of renewed internal conflict, galvanize the peace process and promote development
a number of issues need careful consideration.

1. Identify and form a land tenure system that recognizes the rights of local
communities (peasants and pastoralists) to control and access land, and that
can mediate in disputes over land. During the last century, the state
population has suffered from government control over land with little
consideration for local communities' customary rights. Existing dispute over
land have been compounded by displacement and return. Displacement due
to the heightening of the Roseires Dam is an upcoming issue. Leaving land
tenure issues unresolved weakens rural dwellers, leaving rural communities
in poverty despite other efforts to provide livelihood and development
opportunities to these communities.

2. Invest in basic infrastructure for the state to ensure equitable access for
and integration of all communities and areas. Basic infrastructure is a
determining factor for development and peace in Blue Nile and one that
needs to be address before any other development interventions takes place.
Of particular importance is the construction of paved roads and feeder roads
to link remote productive areas with state and national markets. This will
require a completion of the demining process.

3. Improve the provision of basic services, particularly for war affected areas
and areas that are growing fast (returnee areas, urban centres, areas of
nomadic settlement). Improving conditions for war affected communities and
preventing conflicts over scarce resources in growing settlements are both
essential for a sustained peace.

4. Ensure the full integration between NCP and SPLM elements in the civil
service, administration of state localities, security and military. This is a
requirement of CPA implementation and a necessity for sustained peace in
the State.

5. Provide skills for employment and access to financial services to

alleviate the high unemployment rate in the state, especially among youth.
This is essential both to ameliorate livelihood opportunities and to promote
stability and reintegration of war affected groups.

Throughout the consultation process, government officials and communities

highlighted more detailed areas of concern and recommended actions. It is to these
broader issues of recovery and development that the report now turns in detail in
Section (B).

43
  SECTION (B) Situation Analysis Framework

Situation Analysis Intersect with Expected Outcomes

The following analytic framework was developed by CRMA as a tool to improve the crucial link between data collection, participatory analysis
and the development of programmatic priorities by actors operating in Blue Nile State. The basis for this framework is the data and information
produced by CRMA. This information has been further validated through consultations with various state departments, UN agencies and civil
society actors. The analysis therefore rests on ideas, opinions and information generated and consolidated within the consultation process. The
framework integrates the strategic directions established in the State Strategic Plan for 2007-2011 with the expected outcomes developed
through UNDAF, bringing State-level and UN-led workplans into a single framework. Accordingly, the framework addresses four main
outcomes: peacebuilding, governance and rule of law, livelihoods and the productive sector, and basic service provision. The objective of
Section (B) is to provide a common consolidated information base outlining sectoral priorities and ideas for implementing actors in the state.
This report does not attempt to evaluate validity of the State Strategic Objectives or UNDAF outcomes per se, nor does it provide a concrete
framework for implementation. Nevertheless, it is hoped that the information contained here will inform future state planning processes and
assist partners in their review of programmatic priorities and modalities for implementation.

Outcome 1: Peace Building

Security in Blue Nile State is fragile, due mainly to governance/rule of law issues (examined below) and the lack of peace dividends, further
stretched by returnees’ needs. The resultant civil unrest can turn into a threat to peace, particularly given the wide spread availability of arms
throughout the state as a result of war, mainly among unemployed youth and nomads. Two groups are of special concern to peacebuilding:
returnees and nomadic pastoralists. Returnees present a particular set of challenges for peacebuilding. Lack of infrastructure and proper return
planning, particularly in Kurmuk, can lead to discontent and civil unrest. In many places, returnees are also likely to face high rates of
unemployment related to the poor economic opportunities and little reintegration (especially for excombatants). Disputes over land – involving
nomadic pastoralists and settled farmers – are the most prevalent in the state. Nomadic pastoralists face the additional challenge of adapting
to diminishing resources for pastoralism and the consequent changes in livelihood strategies for those that decide to settle.

The war has destroyed traditional conflict resolutions mechanisms and the native administration is very weak. Building the police capacity and
reinforcing local conflict resolution mechanisms are key priorities for the state. Enacting laws that facilitate conflict resolution is also crucial. The
CPA gives the State Land Commission the authority over the land, and their work requires the support of the international community. Finally,
demining is an important step to building a lasting peace – it will guarantee full access to and presence in all localities across the State.

44
Demining work is done by UNMAO and NGOs, with external funds. At the actual speed and with existing funds, complete demining of the area,
slowed by the rainy season, will take long time according to UNMAO.

Related state strategic objectives:

1. Raising awareness of peace culture and conflict prevention among state communities and political organization.
2. Empowerment of native administration leadership to carry out its responsibility in enhancing social peace and security.
3. Development of laws and legislations that respect the state diversity.
Sub-outcome Issues Priority Areas Response Gap
1. Sudanese society a. Weak local capacities • Training of political and community • Some NGOs have • Currently no identified budgets / programs to
and Government for conflict resolution. leadership on peace building and carried out training and conduct such training.
have enhanced conflict mitigation. workshops.
capacity to use
conflict mitigating .
mechanisms.
b. Continuing land • Create a State Land Commission; • ARD held a Sudan • Action from the Ministry of Agriculture for the
disputes, both between • Draft state regulations on land use and customary Land creation of a State Land Commission,
nomads and farmers and access; Tenure Program in regulations and demarcations;
between small farmers • Clearly demarcate nomadic routes, April 2008, on land • Functioning veterinary services only in
and large holding water points and veterinary facilities, ownership and Damazin, Rosaires and Bot, absent in Ulu, and
farmers. with the involvement of all relevant preparation for the Malkan;
stakeholders; establishment of the • Resolution of ongoing disputes in Baw locality:
• Construct/rehabilitate animal water State land commission. tribal leaders charging fees to allow cattle from
points and veterinary facilities along • Two nomad-farmer other settlements to cross into their land,
new routes; reconciliation tensions between nomadic pastoralists coming
• Define village buffer zones that conferences in from Abu Garin to Bulang;
mechanized farms must respect; Kurmuk; one in March • Resolution of ongoing disputes in Roseires
• Establish local mechanisms for the 2006 (USAID, PACT locality: periodic dispute between nomads
resolution of ongoing disputes (focusing and ARD) was (Kenana, Fulani, Rufaha) and sedentary
on Baw, Roseires and Kurmuk considered a success. communities (Kadalu) between Takamol and
localities). Belgouha, dispute between nomads and
farmers in the area between Umm Gadaya,
Abu Regeiba and El Gerri, dispute between
nomads and farmers in the area southwest of
Wad daf Allah;
• Resolution of ongoing disputes in Kurmuk
locality: resting areas in Surkum and
Gambarda;
• Resolution of ongoing disputes in Attadamon:

45
 the Saudi Agriculture project and AAAID were
authorized by the government in 1972 to
operate in the areas of Agadi, Rouro, Buk and
Gulli, denying land use to local villagers, which
has resulted in civil unrest and poverty.
• Resolution of ongoing dispute between local
small farmers and large farm in Wedabok (Baw
locality).
2. Individuals and a. Many roads still • Kurmuk, Bow, Geissan and Roseires • Since 2006 UNMAO • Improved coordination with UNMAO and State
communities in blocked by mines. are most affected by mines (in has cleared 1412 Km ownership of the process ;
conflict affected decreasing order of severity). and assessed 1856 • Funds to boost the seasonal demining process.
areas face km.
significantly reduced • From January 2010,
threats to social and UNMAO will work on
physical security surveying and clearing
from mines, ERW 32 suspected
and small arms hazardous areas, 76
dangerous areas
(battle area,
ammunition and UXO
clearance sites) and 29
confirmed minefields.
b. Areas where disputes • Baw, Roseires, Kurmuk and some parts • DDR activities focusing on these communities;
between nomads and of Geissan. • Coordination between UN DDR and State
farmers concentrate are authorities involved in conflict mediation.
also reported to have
concentrations of SALW
proliferation among the
civilian population.
c. Some remaining • Kurmuk • Support transition to a civilian authority in
security risks after SPLA Kurmuk.
redeployment
3. Sustainable a. No clear mechanism • Kurmuk and Damazin localities as the • Action from the Ministry of Agriculture for the
solutions for war- to address disputes over major destination areas. creation of a State Land Commission,
affected groups are property relating to IDPs regulations and demarcations.
supported by / returnees
national, sub- b. Unbalanced • Integration of demobilized combatants; • Start of the DDR • Increased financing and attention to the DDR
national and local development of • New livelihoods opportunities for program. element of reintegration;
authorities and communities, with high returnees and demobilized combatants. • Programming to create income generating

46
institutions with levels of unemployment activities for war-affected groups.
active participation and poverty among war- • Development of a long term plan to help war-
of communities. affected groups affected communities.
 

Outcome 2: Governance and Rule of Law

The key priority in the area of governance and rule of law is the integration of the SPLM and the NCP. The State needs to build its identity and
enact decentralization. A key priority is the transformation (demilitarization/integration) of Kurmuk locality. In parallel to this, developing the
capacity of the government administration, police and judiciary is essential to lasting peace and development. An essential element of
strengthening the capacity of government should be establishing local mechanisms for conflict and dispute resolution. Strengthening the Native
Administration and fostering links between it and the State Government are important steps in developing such a conflict resolution mechanism.

Related State strategic objectives:

1. Strengthening decentralized government system and support locality governments.
2. Empowerment of state police and legal systems.
3. Issuing of state laws and legislations that enforce transparency and accountability in civil services.
Sub-outcome Issues Priority Areas Response Gap
1. Individuals and a. The State judiciary is • Extend modern justice delivery systems • Establishment of new • Establishment of judiciary system in Tadamon
communities, in place in the capital but to other localities than Damazin, building for Attorney and Kurmuk localities
especially groups is not decentralized. especially to rural areas. General in Roseires
with specific needs, b. Absence of police • Kurmuk, Geissan, Baw and south • Training and funding for police in priority areas.
have increased presence in rural areas Rosieres
access to equitable
and efficient justice
and democratic
governance
processes.
2. Sudanese society a. Lack of legal • Coordination over conflict resolution • Local government / native administration needs
experience improved framework for local competencies to be established and strengthened, especially
and equitable government and limited where it is essential to law and order
democratic role of native enforcement roles.
governance administration and no
processes. coordinated
competences with the
formal authorities
b. Limited integration of • Partial integration of • Integration of SPLM qualified officers to the civil

47
 SPLM and NCP. police and army. service.
• • Further political integration at the executive
level of government

c. Low level of civil • Education on the upcoming popular • Mercy Corps initiative • Enhance civil society organization and
education on the CPA consultation and elections. in Kurmuk, in awareness, throughout the State, supporting
provisions. cooperation with local creation of training centers, gender sensitive,
organizations replicating existing success initiative.
• PACT initiative of a
consortium of NGOs to
support governance
and institution building.
3. National, a. Heavy financially • Reducing administration and financial • GoNU support and international donors financial
subnational, state dependency of the state corruption in civil services (state and commitments are still behind;
and local institutions on the central localities level) • An institutional assessment of capacity building
have improved government and low and training need for civil servants should be
public administration, capacity of the state civil the first priority.
planning, and service.
budgeting for b. There is a lack of • • State strategic • International community support to the strategic
people-centred, political consensus on planning council is planning process.
socially inclusive and political strategy for the established to fill the
decentralized state (all political parties gap in strategic
development. and civil society planning and enhance
organizations). federal support for
state strategic priorities
that match with
national ones
4. Gender inequities a. Customary laws and • Early marriage (reduces women’s • Training on gender issues to government
addressed in all practices hinder the access to education, thus limiting their officials and tribal leaders.
governance opportunities of women. livelihoods opportunities)
processes and
development
initiatives.
 
 
 
 
 

48
Outcome 3: Livelihoods and Productive Sectors

Blue Nile State is rich in natural resources (land, animals, forests, mining, oil), but limited government control, capacity and funds have
historically resulted in low exploitation of resources. Clear state regulations could not only reduce resource-based conflict (see outcome 1), but
also boost the state’s economy. In particular, following the CPA the government has control over land, which is an opportunity to improve
agriculture and pastoralist economy by overcoming threats related to nomads/famers competition over resources, land ownership and
environmental degradation. The opportunities for agriculture are strong given the high fertility of the soil and presence of water in the east, but
are limited by the lack of funds, infrastructure and capacities to run the sector. In fact, there are few industries and little investment in the state.
High unemployment is prevalent among the urban population, especially among returnees, youth and demobilized people. Finally, the
heightening of the Roseires Dam poses a particular threat to the livelihoods of affected communities.
 
Related State Strategic objectives:
1. Support small producers in the agricultural sector.
2. Diversify livelihood opportunities particularly for vulnerable populations in war affected areas.
3. Encourage and direct foreign aid and investment to address low income and poverty issues.
Sub-outcome Issues Priority Areas Response Gap
1. More rural a. Absence of micro • Encourage the formation of small • Banks have been • Funds allocated by banks are limited and
households, finance services and producers cooperatives (localities) directed to finance restricted;
including agricultural extension, • small business and • Further agricultural inputs and training on
womenheaded resulting in dependence enterprises that help agricultural methods is required.
households, are on rain fed farming vulnerable groups
decently employed increase their incomes
with increased • Some agricultural
sustainable inputs (improved seeds
agricultural and tools) were
productivity and distributed by MoA,
diversification. FAO and NGOs
2. Individuals and a. Inadequate provisions • Kurmuk, Shali al Fil: large number of • Mechanisms for the allocation of farmland to
communities, for ex-combatants and returnees causing friction over access returnees / ex-combatants;
especially youth and returnees to available farming land. • Provision of agricultural inputs and extension
vulnerable groups services (returnees and IDPs areas);
including ex- • Better implementation of the reintegration
combatants, mine aspect of DDR.
victims, WAAFG and
CAAFG, have
access to improved
income generation

49
opportunities and
employment through
decent work.
3. Transportation a. Poor market • Construction of Kurmuk-Damazin road, • Work has started on • Giessan-Damazin road is waiting for funding
networks and market infrastructure, often Roseires and Menza road and Kurmuk-Damazin road from federal government. Other donors like EC
infrastructure to related to lack of paved Damazin- Geissan road. and other feeder roads proposed funding part of this road, butthe state
facilitate the roads and in Damazin and budget needs to be supported;
movement of people, communication network. Tadamon localities to • State has limited capacity to manage large
goods and services, link agricultural projects and contractors.
and commodities production areas with
improved and the state’s main
expanded, thereby markets
fostering increased
agricultural and
industrial production.
4. National and state a. Few provisions for • Clear communication to affected • Governor’s meeting • Produce a comprehensive plan for support to
authorities and communities affected by communities about provisions being with leaders of affected affected communities and communicate it to
communities the heightening of the made. communities in them.
improve sustainable Roseires Dam. October 2009.
natural resource
management and
increase resilience to
natural disasters and
the impact of climate
change.
5. A more equitable, b. Lack of private sector • Investment in the industrial sector is • Engage national and international investors to
competitive and investment. especially low; encourage investment in the state.
socially responsive • Linking investment to local benefits.
private sector in
place.

50
Outcome 4: Basic Services and Infrastructure

Basic services and infrastructure are somewhat lacking throughout the state, with Baw, Geissan and Kurmuk localities, as well as war affected
areas particularly ill-served. The geographical concentration of returnees in Kurmuk locality further stresses basic services and infrastructure.
Access is often particularly problematic for women. CRMA workshops assessed that people perceive the lack of basic services and
infrastructure as the major threat to both security and development. Increased, but also more strategic distribution of health and education
facilities and trained staff, especially in the rural areas, is thus a key priority.
 
Related State Strategic objectives:
1. Special focus on improving health care, with a focus on women’s health care
2. Improve educational facilities, with a concentration on technical education
3. Concentrate efforts in areas affected by the war
Sub-outcome Issues Priority Areas Response Gap
1. Policies, systems, a. Rural hospitals are • Rural areas that are inaccessible during • There is a monthly • The withdrawal of NGOs resulted in noticeable
infrastructure and mainly health centres, the rainy season; coordination gap in basic health services;
human resource there is an urgent need • Kurmuk, Geissan and South Roseires, mechanism on health • Support is required to build basic
capacity improved to to support them with where basic health services are most interventions for State/ infrastructures in high priority areas.
provide equitable primary health and lacking. WHO/ NGOs.
and affordable emergency facilities.
access to basic
quality health,
reproductive health b. 70% of medical staff is • Kurmuk, and rural areas of Geissan and • There is a nursing • Federal support is required to increase staffing,
and nutrition in Damazin and South Roseires. college and a medical especially in high priority areas;
services. Rosaires, rural areas are academy now open in • Measures to ensure higher staff retention.
critically understaffed. Damazin.
2. Community a. General lack of • Consequent high mortality of women • Damazin Hospital • Federal support is required to increase staffing,
members have reproductive health and girls is particularly acute in rural started 6 months especially in high priority areas;
improved preventive services (facilities and areas. courses in midwifery • Measures to ensure the retention of staff.
health care and staff) across the State, . and reproductive
awareness particularly shortage of health twice a year.
extending to midwives.
reproductive health
and nutrition; b. Early marriage leading • Rural areas where young mothers have • • Awareness raising programs and community
corollary reduction in to pregnancies at a very an average of 6-8 children. discussions.
harmful practices young age.
c. Lack of basic nutrition • In rural areas, high mortality rates • Damazin Hospital has • Expansion of nutritional programs targetting
awareness resulting in among young women due to over-work a Nutrition Unit with a women in rural areas.

51
 frequent miscarriages in combination with bad diet. Carrying of small nutrition program
and serious long-term heavy items (water, wood) daily and for for the State, but it
reproductive health long distances. does not reach the
problems due to bad diet • rural areas, or other
during pregnancy and localities.
lack of basic health/
hygiene education.
d. Severe illness or death • FGM is more prevalent in rural areas. • • Awareness raising programs and community
caused by infection from (Agadi area in El Tadamun is discussions.
FGM and lack of medical particularly affected).
response.
3. Vulnerable groups a. Inadequate access to • Mainly non-urban areas, but in the • . • NGOs withdrawal resulted in noticed gap in
have increased and safe drinking water. western parts of the state and in basic water services;
sustainable access Damazin and Roseires towns; • Support required to build basic infrastructures
to, and use of, safe • Areas where hafirs and khors are now and train staff in high priority areas.
water and basic part of farming schemes.
sanitation, and have b. Seasonal water • In Kurmuk, Tadamon and Baw there are • • In some areas, building of dams can be a
adopted improved shortages. seasonal shortages of water and permanent solution as water is scarce on the
hygiene practices. economy depends on the rainy season. ground and hand pumps are not feasible
4. Policies, a. Low capacity to • Make spare parts available on the ground;
knowledge base, manage water at the • Train staff for maintenance, repair and
systems and human community level management.
resource capacities
are improved to
enable decentralised
and sustainable
integrated water
resources
management and
WASH service
delivery.
5. Children and a. Inadequate provision • Provision of basic education is • Considerable funds • NGOs withdrawal resulted in noticed gap in
youth have of school facilities and especially inadequate in Kurmuk, have been allocated basic water services;
increased, equal and teachers to cater to all Geissan and South Roseires; for basic education; • Support required to build basic infrastructures
complete access to students. • Schools in remote areas are most likely • Strong contribution of and train staff in high priority areas.
quality education in to not be free of cost; NGOs in this sector;
learner-friendly • Vocational training centers are lacking • There is already one
environments. in Bow, Geissan and Tadamon. vocational training
centre in Damazin.

52
 b. Low participation of • Rural areas • • Awareness raising programs.
girls in education.
6. National, a. Lack of clarity over • Implement integration in a way that benefits all
subnational and integration of the dual children.
state Ministries of education system.
Education have
improved policy
analysis, educational
planning, sector
coordination,
budgeting,
monitoring and
reporting.
7. HIV infection is a. Lack of focus on • The HIV/AIDS situation is worse in • • Targeted programming addressing HIV/AIDS
reduced and care of HIV/AIDS prevention. Kurmuk (GOAL estimates 6% of the prevention.
those infected and population is affected; the average for • Support Primary prevention programs among
affected is the whole state is 2.6%). the general population with emphasis on the
increased, through most vulnerable groups.
better access to and • Promote policies and support activities to
utilisation of quality, prevent HIV-Mother-to-Child Transmission
gendersensitive (PMTCT).
prevention, care, • Support and promote the VCCT polices and
treatment and activities.
support services. • Increase uptake of the existing HIV/AIDS
treatment services.
• Protection and Support of People affected with
HIV/AIDS;
• Reduce stigma and discrimination against
PLWHA.
• Support policies and planning for HIV/AIDS
response.
 

53
References

Blue Nile Legislative Council (2005): Blue Nile State Interim Constitution 2005.

Camilla Toulmin and Julian Quan (2000): Evolving Land Rights, policy and tenure
in Africa. IIED and Natural Resources Institute, Edinburgh.

Douglas H. Johnson (2005): The Root Causes of Sudan Civil Wars, updated to
CPA. The international African Institute and Indiana University Press.

Federal Ministry of Health (2007): Sudan Household Health Survey 2006-2007.

Ministry of Education (2009): Statistical book, Department of Educational Statistics

and Planning, Ministry of Education Blue Nile State. (In Arabic)

Ministry of Finance and Economy (2004): Investment map, agricultural sector.

Monier E. A. Elshayeb (2007): Socio-economic changes in displaced communities

in Blue Nile State, case study IDPs in Damazin town. A dissertation submitted for
Master Degree in development planning, University of Khartoum. (In Arabic)

Rehab Ahmed Musa (2008): Constraints of rural Woman Development in Sudan,

case study rural woman in Kedallo area, Blue Nile. A dissertation submitted for
Master Degree in Sustainable Rural Development. Ahfad University for Women.

Shukri Ahmed Ali (2008): Roseires Dam; the disparate past, hurtful present and
dark future: analytical view for the dam heightening project and its socio-economic
and environmental implications. A paper published in ALmeydan and Ajrass Elhoria
daily news papers. (In Arabic)

State Strategic Planning Council (2009): Five year strategic plan 2007-2011.

Sudan Productive Capacity Recovery Program (2009): Benchmark Survey

Report, Blue Nile State.

UNDP (2006): Nomads' settlement in Sudan: experience, lessons and future action
(study 1) .UNDP, Sudan.

ODI (2008): Stability and Development in the Three Areas, Sudan.

AEC (2008): Mid Term Evaluation Report.

Gademary Babker Hassan (2006): ‘Tribal structure in the Blue Nile State and the
issue of belonging’.

Khalid Ammar Hassan (2006): ‘The uprooted minorities in Southern Blue Nile
region – Sudan. Case study: the Kadalo Minority Dilemma’.

Abdel Ghaffar M. Ahmed (2008): Transforming Pastoralism: a case study of the

Rufa’a al Hoi Ethnic Group in the Blue Nile State, Sudan.

Mohamed Salih, Dietz, T. Abdel Ghaffar Mohamed Ahmed (2001): African

Pastoralism. Conflict, Institutions and Government.

Abdel Ghaffar M. Ahmed, (2005): ‘The Blue Nile State/region; context and

54
situation’.

GOAL (2007):‘Findings of Multi-indicator nutrition, health, Watsan and mortality

survey’, Kurmuk County.

Leif Manger (2001): ‘Pastoralist State relationship among the Hadendowa Beja of
Eastern Sudan’.

John Young: ‘The politics of South Blue Nile’.

Mercy Corps (2007): “Tensions between sedentary farmers and nomadic

pastoralists in Blue Nile State.”

GOAL (2009): “Findings of a multi-indicator nutritional, health, watsan and mortality

cluster survey.”

WFP (2008): “Food security assessment among returnee population”.

List of Government Officials/ Civil society Organization interviewed

Government Office Name Post/ Title

State General Secretariat Ali Bakri Secretary General, State
Government
Mohamed Elata Director, Office of SG
Elhameem Hamad Director, Information Center
Mohamed
Sabir Abdalaziz Deputy director of information
center
Ministry of Finance and Huzaifa Abdalaziz Director, General Directorate
Economy Elsharif for Planning and Development
Mohamed Abdulshafi' Director, Development and
deputy director of planning
and development
Zuhal Hassan Eljak Director, Department of
Foreign Aid Coordination and
Managment
Mohamed Ali Coordinator, Child Friendly
Serajeldin Communities Initiative(CFCI)
Ministry of Education Azhari Medani Edrees Director, Education Planning
and Statistics
Yousif Abdalla Director, Education
Information Management
Systems (EIMS)
Abdalla Deputy director,
ُ
Education Planning
Ministry of Health Dr. Ali Elseid Director General, Ministry of
Health
Dr. Bakri Elsheikh Director, Health Planning
Elhusain
Khalid Yousif Elawad Deputy director, health
planning
Ministry of Local Elhadi Husein Elsadig Director, Planning and
Governance information

55
 Gareeballa Director, Labor Office
Ministry of Agriculture Ahmed Ibrahim Director General, Ministry of
Mohamed Agriculture
Mohamed Gorashi Director, Agric Planning and
Information
Abdalla Essa Zaied Director, Agric Investment and
Projects
Ahmed Elawad Abu Director, Range Management
Sass
Yousif Suliman Director General, Blue Nile
Abdalla Forests Authority
Mrs. Rehab Ahmed Director, Woman and Rural
Musa Development Dept.
Adil Elzain Adam Deputy, Agric Planning
Ministry of Urban Mustafa Dawood Director, Surveying
Planning Sideeg Suliman Director, Urban planning
Nagwah Director, Land Affairs
Ministry of Culture, Bakri Abdulbasit Director General, Min of CIYS
Information, Youth and Shokri Ahmed Ali Director, Planning and
Sport Mohamed Abdulbari Director, Youth Department
Ministry of Social Affairs Elhaj Rahama Amar Director General, Ministry of
Social affairs and Guidance
Hassan Abdalmajeed Director, Social Walfare
Ahmed Osman Adam Head, Unit of Woman and
child protection
Jihad Ali Elsheikh Director, Woman and Child
Directorate
State General Secretariat Dr. Elhadi Mohamed Secretary General
of Strategic Planning Adam
State Police Brigadier/ Ali Director, Criminal
Abdalaziz Investigations Dept.
Sudan Judiciary Mawlana / Head of State Judicial
Authority
State legislative Council Prof. Mohamed Parliament Speaker
Hassan Abdulrahman (chairman)
Hassan Abass Abu Parliament deputy speaker
rass
Strategic Center for Suliman Mohamed Manager
Economic and Social Suliman
Studies Khalid Amar Civic Education Program
Manager
Dr. Badawi M. Member
Mongash
Para Legal Association Elrasheed Chairman
Abdulmajeed
Ahmed Mohamed Sec. General
Husain
Popular Cor. for Kedallo Mubark Edrees Rajab Chair man
Eltayeb Abu Jamila Sec. General
Pastoralists Union Abdelrahman Hassan Chairman

56