Khartoum, DZWatch – A staggering half of Sudan’s population is grappling with acute food insecurity, according to the Norwegian Refugee Council (NRC). The organization is urgently calling for an immediate ceasefire to allow for the delivery of vital humanitarian aid.
Grace Ongie, Head of Programs for the NRC in Sudan, highlighted the dire situation during a recent briefing, emphasizing the escalating crisis facing displaced Sudanese individuals and refugees fleeing conflict zones to safer regions and neighboring countries.
The number of internally displaced persons (IDPs) within Sudan has reached a staggering 10 million, with South Darfur hosting 1.8 million and North Darfur sheltering 1.7 million. Central Darfur has witnessed approximately 978,000 people displaced. Alarmingly, over 21 million individuals face critical levels of food insecurity.
Compounding the crisis, data indicates that only 40% of displaced individuals spread across Sudan are currently receiving assistance. Ongie stated that those displaced have been forced to leave their homes, experience violence, and are separated from their families.
Fighting and violence have intensified in recent months, particularly in the Darfur and Kordofan regions, leading to further displacement. Reports suggest that massacres and killings have been perpetrated against displaced people, including women and children.
The Rapid Support Forces (RSF) gained control of El Fasher, the capital of North Darfur, on October 26th, and local and international organizations have accused them of committing atrocities against civilians.
Ongie warned that Sudan is on the brink of collapse, with the lack of humanitarian aid and essential services threatening the lives of millions. Ongoing attacks on populated areas have led to an increase in the number of displaced people. The scarcity of resources means that those fleeing conflict zones may not receive the assistance they desperately need.
In light of the growing number of displaced individuals, the NRC is stressing the need for increased appeals and pressure on the warring parties to implement an immediate and urgent ceasefire in Sudan. The organization emphasizes that without a cessation of hostilities, the humanitarian crisis will continue to worsen, pushing the country further towards disaster.
