The United Nations has issued a grave warning about the dire humanitarian situation in Sudan. Nearly five million people face the terrifying prospect of “catastrophic” hunger in the coming months, according to UN aid chief Martin Griffiths.
In a message to the UN Security Council, Griffiths highlighted the devastating impact of the ongoing conflict on Sudan’s food security. Warfare has disrupted agricultural production, damaged essential infrastructure, and disrupted trade routes. These factors, coupled with severe price hikes and limited access to basic necessities, are pushing millions towards the brink of starvation.
Griffiths emphasized the urgency of delivering humanitarian aid and ensuring basic commodities reach those in need. He warned that without immediate intervention, almost five million people in vulnerable regions could face catastrophic food insecurity in the coming months.
The situation in West and Central Darfur is particularly concerning, with a high risk of famine as security conditions deteriorate further. Cross-border aid deliveries from neighboring Chad are a critical lifeline in these desperate times.
“This is a moment of truth,” declared Griffiths. He passionately urged the warring parties to end the violence, protect civilians, and grant unrestricted access for humanitarian assistance.
The ongoing war has inflicted immense suffering on the Sudanese people. Tens of thousands have perished in the conflict, and millions have been displaced from their homes. The UN has previously warned that deliberate denial of access to humanitarian aid by warring factions could constitute a war crime.
Children are bearing the brunt of this crisis. Nearly 730,000 Sudanese children, including a staggering 240,000 in Darfur, are estimated to be suffering from severe malnutrition. This life-threatening condition is already on the rise in accessible areas, raising fears of a wider malnutrition crisis.
The international community has called for a ceasefire, particularly during the upcoming holy month of Ramadan. However, these calls have fallen on deaf ears. The Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) and the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) continue their deadly struggle, further jeopardizing the lives of millions of innocent civilians.
The UN’s 2024 humanitarian response plan for Sudan seeks $2.7 billion, but currently, it is only 4% funded. This significant funding gap leaves millions vulnerable and in desperate need of help.
The situation in Sudan is a stark reminder of the devastating human cost of war. Urgent action is needed to end the violence, ensure aid reaches those in need, and prevent a catastrophic famine that could claim countless lives.
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