Sudan: Civil War Has Now Triggered a Famine

by Karen Faulkner, Worthy News Correspondent

(Worthy News) – Sudanese civilians are dealing with famine in addition to the death, displacement, maiming, and trauma brought on them by the war for power between Sudan’s National Army and the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces that broke out in April 2023, Courthouse News reports.

In a report published Tuesday, the Integrated Food Security Phase Classification (IPC) said famine has now been detected in five areas of Sudan, including in the largest displacement camp, Zamzam, in North Darfur province, Courthouse News reports. Zamzam currently has more than 400,000 people.’

Five other areas in North Darfur may be struck by famine within the next six months, the IPC report shows. A further 17 areas in the Nuba Mountains and the northern and southern areas of Darfur are also at risk of famine. “It is not merely a lack of food but a profound breakdown of health, livelihoods, and social structures, leaving entire communities in a state of desperation,” the IPC notes.

Hunger is also widespread, as food is hard to find and expensive, Courthouse news reports. “Aid groups say they struggle to reach the most vulnerable as warring parties limit access, especially in North Darfur province,” Courthouse News noted.

The IPC is calling for a ceasefire, asserting that it is the only way to prevent famine from spreading.

In a statement, Dervla Cleary, a senior emergency and rehabilitation officer at the UN’s Food and Agriculture Organization, said: “The situation in Sudan is just awful. It is unacceptable in a world like today.”

Latest Worthy News