Displaced people in Thandwe Township, Arakan State, are facing difficulties in securing their basic needs due to a lack of donors, scarce job opportunities, prolonged displacement, and skyrocketing commodity prices, according to the displaced people themselves.
In Thandwe Township, there are over 22,000 internally displaced persons (IDPs). Currently, alongside food shortages, some are experiencing hunger, as reported by both the IDPs and those assisting them.
“There’s no chance to go out to sea for fishing anymore, so there’s no work to do. We’ve been displaced for a long time now. There’s nothing left to sell for food either. Lately, aid groups haven’t been showing up much, and we’re on the verge of starvation,” said a displaced man.
Thandwe locals primarily rely on sea fishing for their livelihood, but with many currently unemployed, they are struggling to find food.
In addition, organizations helping IDPs in the region are receiving fewer donations and are also having to provide healthcare support, leading to food shortages in some IDP camps.
“Some IDP camps are facing food shortages. The groups here have to focus on medical treatment for the displaced people as well, so the food supply side ends up weaker. When we can only donate rice, there are IDPs who have to survive on just rice alone,” said U Phyo Maung Maung, a person assisting with IDP relief efforts.
Furthermore, the IDPs are suffering from malnutrition and health issues due to living in poorly sheltered areas for extended periods, according to a statement released on 6 April by the Laywaddy Thandwe IDP Support Group.
IDPs in Arakan State are also grappling with severe challenges, including airstrikes by the military junta, insufficient food supplies, skin rashes, and a shortage of water.
Sent by Aung Htein (DMG).