Sudan: Fighting Deepens Needs and Fuels Further Displacement in Sudan

What the report says

OCHA says Sudan’s humanitarian crisis is worsening as fighting, displacement and funding gaps continue to raise civilian needs, according to UN News as republished by AllAfrica. The warning comes amid intensified conflict between the Sudanese Armed Forces and the Rapid Support Forces, with the war having begun in April 2023 and now affecting multiple regions of the country.

The report highlights growing danger around El Obeid in North Kordofan, where RSF forces have encircled the city and residents are fleeing there in search of safety. In West Darfur, fighting in Sirba locality displaced about 18,000 people from more than 20 villages in the past week, most of them reportedly crossing into Chad. Despite insecurity, UN and partner agencies have delivered drinking water in El Obeid to help meet severe shortages.

The article also links humanitarian needs to shrinking resources. OCHA said three health facilities in Central Darfur recently closed because of funding shortfalls, cutting off care for an estimated 75,000 displaced people. Sudan’s humanitarian appeal of nearly $3 billion for this year is a little over 40% funded, with about $1.2 billion received so far.

The UN is urging parties to protect civilians and allow safe, rapid aid access while diplomatic efforts continue through the Secretary-General’s envoy and regional partners. The broader context is a conflict that has displaced millions and left more than 30 million people in need of assistance, according to the report.