The United Nations Security Council convened on Wednesday to address the escalating humanitarian crisis in Sudan, where over 16 months of war have left millions on the brink of disaster. UN Assistant Secretary-General for Africa Martha Ama Akyaa Pobee warned of “appalling levels of suffering” for civilians, particularly in El Fasher, where a months-long siege by the Rapid Support Forces has led to famine conditions in Zamzam camp and other areas.
The conflict, sparked by tensions between the military and Rapid Support Forces in April 2023, has ravaged Khartoum and other urban centres, destroying critical infrastructure and crippling the healthcare system. Many hospitals have shut down due to lack of basic supplies.
Sudan’s humanitarian needs are staggering: an estimated 9 million people, 73% of the population, require assistance in 2024, according to the UN Humanitarian Needs Overview. The crisis has also sparked widespread displacement, with over 10 million internally displaced persons and 2 million refugees fleeing to neighbouring countries.
Key Concerns:
- Food Insecurity: 25.6 million people face crisis-level hunger, with 750,000 experiencing catastrophic food insecurity.
- Displacement: 10.7 million internally displaced persons, 2.27 million refugees in neighbouring countries.
- Healthcare: Many hospitals closed due to lack of supplies, looming disease outbreaks.
- Famine: Declared in North Darfur State, with 600,000 people at risk in Zamzam camp.
The international community is calling for urgent action to address the crisis, with the UN seeking $2.7 billion in humanitarian funding for 2024. As the situation continues to deteriorate, the world must come together to support the people of Sudan
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