Sudan’s ongoing war, ignited in April 2023 between the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) and the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF), has been described by aid officials as creating the “largest and most devastating humanitarian crisis” in the world.
More than 30 million people, nearly two-thirds of the population, are expected to require humanitarian aid this year. The warring parties are accused of blocking aid deliveries, exacerbating the suffering of civilians, and hindering relief efforts. Both the RSF and the SAF have denied these accusations, with the RSF attributing the actions to rogue elements and pledging to investigate, while Sudan’s U.N. ambassador defended the Government’s commitment to civilian protection.
The crisis has led to severe food shortages, with famine affecting at least five locations in Sudan. UNICEF reports that over 3 million children under five are at risk of deadly diseases such as cholera and malaria, due to the collapse of the country’s health system. Furthermore, the conflict has seen a horrifying surge in sexual violence, with hundreds of children, some as young as one, being raped. Aid organisations such as Doctors Without Borders (MSF) have provided support to numerous survivors, but the scope of the violence is vast and still underreported.
The conflict has also led to significant disruption in Sudan’s agricultural sector, further deepening food insecurity. The UN’s call for action has become urgent, with aid officials highlighting the dire need for a sustainable and safe humanitarian response. The international community continues to push for the protection of civilians and for unrestricted access to aid for the millions in need. Despite these efforts, the warring factions remain locked in battle, leaving the country’s most vulnerable populations to bear the brunt of the crisis.