Diar for Rehabilitation and Development Association (DRDA)

The organisation believes that women can provide a unique and valuable perspective on the conflict in Sudan. It believes that through education and capacity building it can enhance the capability of women to participate in the peace process.

Overview

Diar (meaning "women") for Rehabilitation and Development Association (DRDA) is a community-based organisation, founded in 2000 by a group of internally displaced women. Its main office is in Khartoum, with branch offices in Rumbek, Juba, Malakai and Nuba Mountains. Its aim is to enhance the capability of women, including widows, orphans, the disabled, and women in rural communities, and to take care of those who cannot care for themselves. The overall objective of DRDA is to facilitate peacemaking and conflict resolution as a prerequisite to sustainable development, working among IDPs and other marginalised women.

Overall control of DRDA is exercised by the 100 members, drawn from different professions, who make up the General Assembly. DRDA is registered with the Humanitarian Aid Commission, and the Sudan Relief and Rehabilitation Commission.

Regional development is hampered not only by a lack of peace but also by the threat caused by HIV/AIDS, civil conflict, mobility of the population, poverty, gender imbalances and food insecurity. Women and girls are the most vulnerable, particularly as regards HIV/AIDS.

DRDA has organised workshops on the role of women in peacebuilding, attracting 100 grassroots leaders from communities affected by conflict across the Sudan.
We have learned that there is a need to elevate the status of women as mediators and negotiators of conflict from the community level to the official peace negotiations. This means women will have a chance to raise issues such as food, homes, education, reconciliation and the rebuilding of relationships among tribes.

What services are provided?

Training, workshops.

Geographical area of operation

Khartoum, Rumbek, Juba, Malakai and Nuba Mountains.

Funding resources

British Embassy, DAI/OTI.

What new contacts would you like to make?

Meeting similar organisations working towards the empowerment of women in conflict areas.

Associated Organisations

SIHA.