More than 700 trucks filled with food aid are set to reach communities in Sudan, where widespread hunger is threatening millions. The ongoing conflict in the country has left many people unable to farm, resulting in severe food shortages. With markets almost empty and prices soaring, aid organizations are struggling to reach those most in need due to restricted access imposed by the warring factions.
Nour Abdallah, a resident of the Zamzam displacement camp, described the dire situation, saying, “There is a lot of suffering in this camp.” In July, global experts confirmed that famine had struck the camp, and they warned that approximately 25 million people—more than half of Sudan’s population—will face acute hunger this year.
“People have to eat ombaz,” Abdallah explained, referring to the leftover waste from peanut shells, used after oil extraction.
The World Food Programme (WFP) plans to deliver over 17,000 tons of food aid to help 1.5 million people for a month. The aid will target 14 areas across Sudan deemed “hotspots” due to extreme food insecurity and famine risks. WFP officials stressed the need for expanded and sustained access to ensure aid reaches all those in need.
The conflict, which erupted in April 2023 between General al-Burhan’s forces (SAF) and the Rapid Support Forces, has led to the deaths of around 24,000 people and displaced millions.
Between May and September, seven children at a Doctors Without Borders (MSF)-run hospital in Chad’s Aboutengue displacement site died due to malnutrition, often compounded by diseases in weakened bodies.
U.S. President Joe Biden has urged both sides in the conflict to allow unfettered humanitarian access and halt the killing of civilians. However, there are no signs that the fighting will cease anytime soon.
