The Displacement Tracking Matrix (DTM) in Sudan operates as a crucial system for monitoring population displacement and mobility. This system is expertly designed to systematically gather, process, and share information regularly, thereby fostering a deeper understanding of the movements and evolving needs of displaced populations, whether they are in established sites or on the move. The data collection methods and tools employed by DTM are rooted in a globally recognized methodology, yet they are meticulously adapted to reflect the specific circumstances of Sudan and its unique population movements. Like a well-oiled machine fine-tuned for peak performance, DTM strives for the best “track times” in humanitarian response, ensuring rapid and efficient data collection to inform effective aid delivery.
Currently, DTM utilizes a network of over 300 field enumerators across all 18 states of Sudan to provide the humanitarian community with essential primary data on displacement dynamics and the scale of displacement. These enumerators are selected based on their in-depth knowledge of their respective areas and undergo rigorous training on DTM Sudan’s standardized global data collection practices and methodologies. To ensure you remain informed about DTM’s latest outputs and insights, we encourage you to join our mailing list here.
Since its inception in 2004, DTM Sudan has been instrumental in providing swift emergency registrations, prioritizing the urgent need for information to guide immediate assistance to vulnerable populations. Expanding its capabilities in 2010, DTM incorporated biometric registrations and data verifications in response to requests from both the government and humanitarian partners. This registration data is indispensable for site managers, enabling them to effectively manage beneficiary selection, target vulnerability, and shape broader humanitarian programs. Furthermore, DTM Sudan has managed a Flow Monitoring Point in Abyei, diligently registering the arrival of South Sudanese individuals into the country.
In November 2019, DTM Sudan broadened its operational scope to implement Mobility Tracking (MT), initially covering seven states and expanding to encompass a total of 17 states by Round Six. The MT methodology leverages key informant networks to systematically monitor mobility trends in designated locations over consistent data collection cycles. Enumerators regularly revisit each location, interviewing key informants to update location data and periodically confirm population presence. DTM Sudan’s MT figures have received endorsement from the Humanitarian Aid Commission (HAC) and are coordinated with UNOCHA, serving as a vital resource for informing the Humanitarian Needs Overview (HNO) and the Humanitarian Response Plan.
As a key component of Mobility Tracking, Emergency Event Tracking (EET) is routinely activated to track sudden displacements and population movements, providing more frequent updates when critical. EET is deployed within 72 hours to one week following an event, such as natural disasters or conflict, to facilitate rapid response planning. Prior to EET implementation, Early Warning Flash Alerts are disseminated within the initial 24-48 hours of incidents, alerting partners to sudden events that will trigger subsequent EET activities. Additionally, DTM Sudan has developed Situation Assessments to gather data on populations in non-emergency or prolonged situations resulting from conflict or natural disasters.
Complementing the Mobility Tracking methodology, DTM has also conducted Integrated Location Assessments (ILA). ILAs are employed to enhance the accuracy and timeliness of information regarding access to services at major displacement sites, alongside profiling displaced and returnee populations. The objective of these assessments is to determine the severity of living conditions for returnees and internally displaced persons (IDPs), enabling partners to better strategize resource allocation and operations in vulnerable areas. This approach also helps mitigate push/pull factors, facilitating more targeted and coherent interventions that bridge humanitarian aid, recovery, and stabilization needs.
DTM has also played a supporting role in data collection for the Multi-Sector Needs Assessment (MSNA). The MSNA is designed to assess and provide timely updates on sectoral humanitarian needs across Sudan. In previous years, the MSNA offered a comprehensive overview of the sectoral needs of both IDP and non-displaced populations, informing humanitarian response and strategic programming. The MSNA is a cornerstone in establishing a robust evidence base for the Humanitarian Needs Overview and Humanitarian Response Plan. It is executed in close collaboration with UNOCHA, the Inter-Sector Coordination Group, and the National Assessment Task Team. Since 2021, DTM Sudan has typically conducted the MSNA annually, working in partnership with the broader humanitarian community.
Since the outbreak of military conflict between the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) and the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) on April 15, 2023, DTM Sudan has been providing the humanitarian community with regular, comprehensive updates on displacement trends directly resulting from the ongoing conflict. Six months into the conflict, DTM Sudan has identified IDPs in 167 out of Sudan’s 189 localities, spanning all 18 states. Initially through Situation Reports, and subsequently Weekly Displacement Snapshots, these reports also include information on mixed cross-border movements to neighboring countries. In these reports, DTM utilizes a key informant methodology to capture the most accurate estimates of IDP numbers, shelter types, and movement intentions. This crucial information is gathered through a combination of remote and face-to-face interviews. The Monthly Displacement Overview provides a more in-depth contextual analysis, including breakdowns by sex and age, priority needs, and access to services at IDP locations.
For further inquiries and information, please contact IOM Sudan:
- Tel.: +249 157 554 600/1/2
- Email: [email protected]
