Sudan’s sovereign council has announced the extension of the Adre border crossing with Chad, ensuring continued humanitarian access to regions facing severe food insecurity. This critical decision affects over 25 million people experiencing acute hunger, with several areas at immediate risk of famine.
The crossing, initially closed in February before a temporary reopening in August, has facilitated the delivery of essential supplies to more than 1.3 million people through 300 aid trucks. Recent deliveries included crucial nutrition support to the famine-affected Zamzam camp.
Despite government concerns about potential weapons trafficking benefiting the Rapid Support Forces (RSF), which controls most of Darfur including the crossing, humanitarian necessity has prevailed. The United Nations has welcomed the three-month extension while emphasizing the need for additional access routes.
The decision follows high-level diplomatic engagement, including discussions between Sudan’s army chief and the UN Secretary-General during the COP29 summit. Aid organizations have stressed the crossing’s efficiency compared to alternatives through Port Sudan or al-Tina.
While initial aid delivery faced challenges during the rainy season, the extension provides critical time for humanitarian organizations to maintain supply chains. The UN emphasizes that multiple access routes, including cross-border and internal pathways, remain essential for addressing escalating humanitarian needs across Sudan.