The United Nations issued a dire warning on Friday that the humanitarian crisis in war-torn Sudan is escalating into a regional catastrophe.
The declaration of famine in the North Darfur region marks a catastrophic turning point in the conflict, which has ravaged the country since April 2023.
The conflict between Al Burhan’s army and the Rapid Support Forces has driven millions from their homes, with the Zamzam camp near El-Fasher bearing the brunt of the suffering.
The UN-backed Integrated Food Security Phase Classification (IPC) confirmed on Thursday that the camp has descended into famine, a stark indicator of the dire conditions on the ground.
The UN refugee agency, UNHCR, has called on the international community to significantly increase aid to Sudan.
Mamadou Dian Balde, UNHCR’s regional refugee coordinator, emphasized the urgency of the situation, stating that women, children, and men are dying from hunger, malnutrition, and disease.
He warned that the crisis is deepening daily and threatens to destabilize the entire region.
With over 10 million people displaced and human rights atrocities on the rise, Sudan is facing one of the world’s worst humanitarian disasters.
The influx of refugees and internally displaced persons is overwhelming host communities, pushing them to the brink.
The World Health Organization has cautioned that famine conditions may be spreading beyond Zamzam, with nearly half of Sudan’s population facing acute food insecurity.
The UN is urging an immediate end to the conflict and unhindered access for humanitarian aid workers to reach those in need.
