Sudan is facing a severe food crisis, with more than 20.3 million people, or over 42% of the population, experiencing acute food insecurity. The situation has worsened due to the conflict between rival military factions, leading to fighting and displacement in various regions, including Khartoum, Darfur, and Kordofan.

The ongoing conflict between Sudan’s army and the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) has resulted in the displacement of over 3 million people within the country and forced more than 900,000 to seek refuge in neighbouring states. The disruption of supply chains, population displacement, and damage to infrastructure have all contributed to the rising hunger crisis.

The Integrated Food Security Classification (IPC) reported that the number of people facing acute hunger and in need of urgent support has increased by 8.6 million compared to the same period last year. The United Nations had previously estimated that 19.1 million people would experience food insecurity by August, but the actual number has surpassed that forecast.

Farmers have been unable to plant crops, exacerbating the spread of hunger. Although there is a prediction that the number of people facing acute food insecurity may decrease to around 15 million during the harvesting season between October 2023 and February 2024, it would still be the highest figure recorded during that period.

Residents in Sudan have reported worsening conditions, including prolonged power cuts, shortages of medicine, and communications blackouts. Aid agencies have faced challenges in delivering relief to those in need.

Amnesty International has also reported extensive war crimes being committed in Sudan, with civilians becoming victims of deliberate and indiscriminate attacks. The civilian death toll in Khartoum is reportedly much higher than official figures suggest, as civilians are caught between RSF occupation and army airstrikes and bombardments. The situation remains critical, demanding urgent attention and support from the international community.

 

 

Source: Daily Sabah