Sudan

Since gaining independence from the UK in 1956, Sudan has been embroiled in prolonged civil wars for most of the second half of the century. The conflicts stemmed from northern political, economic and social domination of the predominantly non-Muslim, non-Arab southern Sudanese. Peace talks during 2002-2004 finally produced a Comprehensive Peace Agreement, which granted 6 years of autonomy to Southern Sudan in 2005. A separate conflict, which broke out in 2003 in Darfur, has displaced nearly 2 million people. Years of armed conflicts, decrepit transportation infrastructure and lack of government support obstruct the provision of humanitarian assistance to the affected populations. Counterpart has worked to bring educational opportunities to the women and girls of Sudan through increased vocational training and income generating activities, plus providing humanitarian assistance to areas affected by Darfur.