The Norwegian Refugee Council (NRC) has issued a stark warning regarding the humanitarian crisis unfolding in Sudan, stating that over 20 million Sudanese people are in urgent need of assistance. The situation is particularly dire in the North Darfur region, especially around the city of El Fasher.
NRC Secretary General Jan Egeland described the situation as “appalling,” highlighting reports of atrocities and human rights violations committed in El Fasher. He noted that many civilians are trapped within the city, fearing for their lives, following its capture by the Rapid Support Forces (RSF).
Despite the immense challenges, the NRC maintains an active aid program in the region, with 48 staff members working to deliver critical assistance, particularly to the area of Tawila. Egeland reported that approximately 380,000 people have received aid from the NRC and other humanitarian organizations, including Sudanese civil society groups, which he commended for their heroic efforts.
Egeland expressed deep concern that the Sudanese crisis is not receiving the international attention it desperately requires, despite being one of the world’s largest humanitarian emergencies. With over 10 million people displaced and more than 20 million in need of aid, the needs are immense. He further cautioned that the approaching winter will exacerbate the suffering of displaced Sudanese populations.
The NRC pledged to increase its aid efforts but appealed for greater support from the United States, Europe, and Gulf nations, emphasizing the widespread displacement and loss of livelihoods. Egeland also urged countries with influence in Sudan to facilitate humanitarian access to those in desperate need, emphasizing the need for increased resources and unfettered access to affected populations.
The NRC specifically called upon the United States, Egypt, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates to leverage their influence to secure a peace agreement and ensure the delivery of humanitarian aid. According to the United Nations, approximately 89,000 people have fled El Fasher and surrounding areas for Tawila in North Darfur since late October.
DZWatch continues to monitor the situation and will provide updates as they become available. The humanitarian crisis in Sudan demands immediate and sustained international attention to alleviate the suffering of millions.
