UK-led partners warn of famine risk in Sudan
19-point-five million Sudanese face acute hunger as conflict and aid obstruction worsen food insecurity.
A UK-led international warning highlights the rising risk of famine in Sudan, where 19.5 million people face acute hunger. The joint ministerial statement, issued by the UK and 31 partners on October 23, states that 5 million are experiencing emergency levels of food insecurity. The number of children suffering severe acute malnutrition could exceed 825,000 if the current trend continues.
The statement attributes Sudan's hunger crisis primarily to conflict, which has displaced millions, damaged infrastructure, and disrupted food production and markets. It also cites systematic obstruction of humanitarian aid and the effects of El Niño, including reduced rainfall and drought. The signatories urge warring parties to lift aid restrictions, protect aid workers, and allow air access into Darfur.
The parties to the conflict are called upon to remove all obstacles to humanitarian assistance and ensure safe, unhindered access. The statement also requests international community to increase humanitarian funding urgently. The number of areas affected by food insecurity is expected to double from the initial assessment of 14.
Why it matters19-point-five million Sudanese face acute hunger as conflict and aid obstruction worsen food insecurity.