The World Food Programme (WFP) announced its successful negotiation for the delivery of the first two convoys of food aid into Sudan’s troubled Darfur region. The move comes amidst dire warnings of an impending famine exacerbated by a year-long conflict and limited access to essential food supplies.
The conflict between Sudan’s army and the Rapid Support Forces has triggered widespread food insecurity, resulting in significant hunger across the nation. Infrastructure and markets have been decimated, while over eight million individuals have been displaced.
Experts from the Famine Early Warning Systems Network (FEWS Net) have cautioned that areas such as Khartoum and West Darfur, which have witnessed intense violence, are on the brink of catastrophic hunger, with similar conditions expected in other parts of Darfur accommodating millions of displaced people.
One convoy, carrying 1,300 tonnes of supplies, successfully reached West and Central Darfur through the Adre border crossing with Chad. This route had been previously blocked by the Sudanese army in February, citing alleged support from the United Arab Emirates via Chad to the Rapid Support Forces.
Additionally, in early March, the Sudanese army granted permission for deliveries via air and through the Tina border crossing into North Darfur, the only state in Darfur not under RSF control. The second convoy utilized this route, providing essential food aid for 250,000 individuals.
The situation remains dire, with over 18 million people in Sudan facing acute hunger, according to the WFP. Eddie Rowe, WFP Sudan Country Director, expressed deep concern over the looming crisis, especially with the upcoming planting season. The previous cereal harvest was halved compared to previous levels, leading to a doubling of prices for essential goods.
Many residents in Darfur, particularly those in displacement camps, claim they have not received aid since before the conflict began. The UN’s aid response for Sudan remains critically underfunded, with only 5% of required funds secured.
