Urgent Warning from UN Agencies
UN agencies have issued a joint warning about the escalating crisis in Darfur, Sudan, where clashes around El Fasher are threatening to cause widespread starvation. The violence, which began last April, has plunged the country into a devastating humanitarian and protection crisis.
Extent of the Crisis
- Close to 25 million people in Sudan, more than half the population, are estimated to need assistance.
- Approximately 17.7 million people are facing “acute” levels of food insecurity.
- The crisis has been described as being of “epic proportions” by the UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA).
Challenges in Delivering Aid
The crisis is exacerbated by limited access to vulnerable communities due to ongoing fighting and authorities’ restrictions. The conflict between the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) and the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) continues to hinder humanitarian efforts.
Impact on Civilians
Michael Dunford, regional director for Eastern Africa at the UN World Food Programme (WFP), emphasized the desperation of civilians caught up in the fighting. He highlighted the urgent need for unrestricted access and security guarantees to deliver assistance to families facing starvation.
Children at Risk
Catherine Russell, Executive Director of UN Children’s Fund (UNICEF), drew attention to the impact of the conflict on children. Recent attacks have resulted in deaths, injuries, and reports of violence, including sexual violence, against women and children.
Call for Action
UN officials, including the UN Secretary-General’s Personal Envoy for Sudan, are calling for de-escalation of tensions and safe movement of civilians. The UN refugee agency, UNHCR, is facing challenges in reaching those in need, with reports of severe trauma among displaced populations.
Threat of Unexploded Ordnance
The fighting has also led to a significant number of unexploded weapons in Sudan, posing a serious risk to civilians. Mohammad Sediq Rashid, Chief of the UN Mine Action Service (UNMAS) in the country, highlighted the danger posed by these unexploded weapons.