The African Medical Association of Scandinavia (AMAS) is making a special appeal for aid for the western and eastern parts of Sudan. Some 2 million people are affected by the "bloody and protracted conflict in Sudan," states the association, which is seeking voluntary health care workers, medicine, medical equipment and cash contributions. "There is compelling evidence of attempts to ethnically cleanse the Nuba peoples from this region . . . . These people are totally helpless in the face of extreme brutality."
AMAS in particularly concerned about the "total lack of state institutions" in Sudan. In the Nuba Mountains, for example, there are 2 German "houseman [not fully qualified] doctors" working in "extremely primitive conditions." They are providing care for about 500 000 civilians widely dispersed over 7 counties. There is no vaccination program and no sanitation or clean-water projects.
AMAS is planning a 5-part project that includes improved sanitation, creation of a piped water supply, a comprehensive vaccination program, nutrition education and primary and emergency health care. Specific initiatives will include sending 1 doctor to each of the 2 regions, training volunteers to provide vaccination, clean water and sanitation, training traditional midwives in family planning and providing food.
AMAS was established in 1991 and has 109 members, 29 of African descent. It hopes to act as soon as possible. "It is after all a matter of life for tens of thousands of people," the organization said in a letter to CMA President Allon Reddoch.
AMAS is a registered charity. For information contact AMAS, PO Box 511, S-581 06 Linkoping. Sweden; [email protected].