Implementation of the Displacement Tracking Matrix (DTM) and emergency information management in Sudan The Displacement Tracking Matrix (DTM) is IOM’s global information management tool designed and developed to track and monitor human mobility and displacement during crises. The DTM provides all humanitarian partners with essential, accurate and up to date information on affected populations, providing a better understanding of beneficiaries’ crucial needs and enabling humanitarian actors to deliver vital, timely assistance to the most vulnerable, as well as informing the strategic allocation of limited resources.

DTM data collection and verification comprises of a number of phases and utilizes different tools to enhance data accuracy. By systematically tracking population mobility, monitoring movement flows at key points of origin, transit and destination, registering individuals and households, and carrying out surveys to gather more specific information, the DTM is able to identify both new and protracted caseloads of IDPs and returnees, including those displaced in the host community.  

The collection, analysis, mapping and dissemination of this vital baseline data enables timely identification of vulnerable populations such as female-headed households, physically and mentally disabled persons, unaccompanied children and elders, providing critical information about their needs, thus strengthening the coordinated efforts of all humanitarian actors. 

A number of humanitarian stakeholders, including the protection sector and sectors providing emergency responses such as Shelter and Non-Food Items (ES/NFI) and food distributions, consistently rely on DTM information. Sector specific information can also be collected through the DTM to cover specific areas of interest and to increase availability of operational information for targeted interventions.

IOM’s proposed intervention under the 2017 1st SHF allocation aims to undertake DTM registration and verification of IDPs (newly displaced and old caseloads) and returnees in all areas of Sudan where access is granted. The IOM DTM team will utilize the DTM emergency tracking system to monitor ongoing emergencies or known high risk situations, which could potentially trigger population movements. The situation will be further analysed through flow monitoring carried out at transit and arrival points, followed by registration and verification of affected populations, to establish baseline estimate numbers of IDPs and returnees. Sites assessments will be conducted at the sites of displacement or return to identify urgent needs and gaps in the availability of basic services. 

The data collected though the DTM will be analysed and verified for quality and accuracy by a trained and experienced team of data analysts. In addition, IOM coordinates with OCHA and other agencies tp ensure accuracy and triangulation of data. DTM statistical reports will be timely shared with the GoS, humanitarian partners and relevant sectors on a regular basis through the IOM Sudan website (monthly) and in the form of reports, updates, and info graphs the frequency of updates will increase during emergencies and will be shared as flash reports. The data will also be shared via the global DTM website which is currently being updated and will soon be available. In line with IOM’s data protection principles, more elaborate datasets will be available upon requests.

Information sharing will occur via multiple forums, including through the Coordination and Common Service (CCS) sector, the Khartoum and field Inter-Sector Coordination Group (ISCG) and the Population Forum Working Group, as well as being updated regularly on the IOM website. This information will continue to form the basis of intervention for a range of humanitarian actors throughout Sudan. Population data will be disaggregated by age, gender, disability, vulnerability, place of origin and place of displacement. A breakdown of camp and/or other area profiles may be further developed depending on the need and demand for such informati