The Emergency Response Rooms (ERRs) (Arabic: غرف الطوارئ) in Sudan, a community-led initiative formed by the resistance committees behind the 2019 revolution, have played a crucial role in providing humanitarian aid during the Sudanese civil war between the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) and the Rapid Support Forces (RSF), which began in April 2023. As of February 2024[update], ERRs had assisted over four million people, evacuating thousands and supplying essential resources like clean water and medical supplies. Despite being targeted and facing violence, ERRs remain a symbol of decolonised aid, funded by communities and external donors. Their efforts have been praised by the European Union and U.S. RepresentativeIlhan Omar.
As of February 2024[update], ERRs have provided help for more than four millions.[7][10] These volunteers have successfully evacuated tens of thousands of people from conflict zones,[10][11] provided essential services such as clean water and medical supplies,[12] and have kept the few operational hospitals stocked with necessary fuel and supplies.[13][14] In addition to these efforts, ERRs have maintained vital water and communication infrastructure, ensuring that communities remain connected and have access to clean water.[15][16] They also run community kitchens that feed millions of people,[17] addressing the severe food shortages caused by the conflict.[18][19] EERs has also been active in responding to sexual violence cases during the civil war.[20]
Most ERRs are not legally registered. ERRs are community funded but also receives funds from Non-governmental organization, international development agencies,[22] charities,[5] individuals,[23] and local businesses.[24] Nonetheless, in a press release in April 2024, U.S. representative for Minnesota's 5th congressional districtIlhan Omar stated that there is a "need to significantly ramp up direct funding for Emergency Response Rooms – not only providing essential services but demonstrating our commitment to supporting civilian rule in Sudan."[25]
Nevertheless, ERRs have faced significant challenges, including being targeted by both sides of the civil war,[26] including arrest and abduction,[27] rape,[28][29] and killing.[30][31] For example, three ERRs volunteers were killed in 2023 while trying to assist civilians in Al Fiteihab, Khartoum,[32] and two more were killed in Naivasha Market.[33]
ERRs is considered as an example of the decolonisation of aid.[34] The decolonisation of aid refers to efforts to transform the international aid system by addressing and dismantling the power imbalances and colonial legacies that have historically shaped it.[35]
