Sudan Faces Devastating Humanitarian Crisis Amid Ongoing Conflict

Sudan is grappling with the worst hunger and displacement crisis in the world as a result of the 15-month armed conflict between the Sudanese army and the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF), Anadolu Agency reported yesterday.

The conflict, which began in April 2023, has claimed an estimated 16,000 lives, with the true death toll likely much higher due to the collapse of the country’s healthcare system. The International Organization for Migration (IOM) reports that over 7.7 million people have been internally displaced, while more than 2 million have fled to neighboring countries, with children under 18 making up 55% of the refugees.

UNICEF has stated that Sudan now has the world’s largest number of displaced children, with 5 million affected. The UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) has warned that the situation continues to deteriorate, with women, children, and entire families forced to flee, leaving everything behind.

The crisis has also led to a severe food insecurity crisis, with the World Health Organization reporting that one in five people in Sudan is experiencing emergency-level food insecurity. The International Rescue Committee estimates that 3 million people are on the brink of famine and could die from starvation.

In response, some countries have dispatched shipments of humanitarian aid, including food, hygiene products, clothing, shelter, and medical supplies, but greater international support is crucial to avert a worsening humanitarian situation.