The Zamzam refugee camp was established in 2004, situated approximately from the city of
El Fasher, the capital of
North Darfur, to accommodate the influx of
internally displaced persons (IDPs) fleeing violence and persecution during the
Darfur conflict, which erupted in 2003. The conflict involved various armed groups, including the Sudanese government and
Janjaweed militias, leading to widespread atrocities against civilians, including
ethnic cleansing and mass killings. The
United Nations estimates that over 2.5 million people have been displaced due to the conflict, with Zamzam being one of the significant camps providing refuge to these vulnerable populations. The camp has grown significantly over the years, with estimates suggesting that it houses tens of thousands of residents, primarily from the
Fur,
Zaghawa, and
Masalit ethnic groups. The Zamzam camp has a high rates of
malnutrition, communicable diseases, and maternal and child mortality among the camp's population compared to the general Sudanese population. Moreover, many individuals experience trauma, anxiety, and depression, which are often exacerbated as mental health services are scarce, and the stigma surrounding mental health issues further complicates access to care. In Zamzam camp, many families depend on external assistance as employment opportunities are limited, and the camp's economy is largely informal, characterized by small-scale trade and
subsistence agriculture. Initiatives aimed at improving education, vocational training, and livelihood opportunities are being implemented, albeit on a limited scale. As of 2025, the Zamzam camps is split into multiple neighborhoods and areas, including the Labado and Ahmadai neighborhoods, Ammar Jadid and Saloma Square with important structures being the
Relief International clinic,
Médecins Sans Frontières hospital and the central market. == Sudanese civil war (2023–present) ==