Seven months into Sudan’s civil war, the situation in the capital, Khartoum, and other parts of the country has deteriorated to an unbearable extent. The conflict between the army and the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) has resulted in the deaths of thousands of Sudanese people, with many more injured and displaced. The ongoing fighting has led to a severe shortage of essential resources such as food, water, and electricity. The UN estimates that more than five million people have been displaced and 24.7 million are in need of humanitarian assistance.
The distribution of aid has been severely impacted due to the intense fighting in Khartoum and the western region of Darfur. The UN is calling for a ceasefire to allow for the delivery of humanitarian aid and to assess the extent of the needs of those affected. The situation is dire, with many people lacking access to clean water, increasing the risk of cholera and other diseases. The UN’s deputy special representative in Sudan, Clementine Nkweta-Salami, emphasizes the urgent need for a permanent cessation of hostilities to ensure the delivery of aid and the resumption of normal life for Sudanese people.
The ongoing conflict has also resulted in a growing humanitarian crisis in the port city of Port Sudan, where many people sought refuge. Displaced families are struggling to find enough food to eat, with limited provisions and no refrigeration. The situation is especially dire for children, who are at risk of malnutrition and illness. Syrian businessmen have been funding food supplies for Syrian refugees in the camp, leaving Sudanese people to go hungry. The lack of support and resources has left individuals like Hawa Suleiman and her five children traumatized and exhausted.
The impact of the civil war extends beyond Sudanese nationals, with refugees from various countries, including Syria, Pakistan, India, and South Sudan, also suffering. In Port Sudan, hundreds of families are living in overcrowded shelters, such as a former university dormitory. Many individuals, like Abiol, have been forced to migrate multiple times, living their entire lives in refugee camps.
The conflict has not only affected civilians but also aid workers, making Sudan the most dangerous place in the world for humanitarian workers. UN workers have faced numerous security incidents, resulting in 19 deaths. Despite the critical situation, the UN is struggling to secure necessary funds for its humanitarian response plan.
The current situation in Sudan’s civil war demands immediate attention and action. The international community must come together to support humanitarian efforts and provide the necessary resources to alleviate the suffering of those affected. A ceasefire is crucial for the safe delivery of aid and the restoration of normalcy in Sudan. The cost of inaction is high, and it is essential to prioritize the well-being and survival of the Sudanese people.
