Humanitarian Crisis in Sudan: Armed Conflict and Refugee Exodus Spark Urgent Calls for Aid
An armed conflict erupted in Sudan’s capital city of Khartoum on April 15, 2023, between the Rapid Armed Forces and the Sudanese Armed Forces. Rapidly spreading through the Darfur region, this conflict has resulted in a dire humanitarian crisis with significant implications beyond Sudan’s borders. The situation calls for immediate attention and international aid.
The conflict has forced over 650,000 people to flee the country, and an additional 2.2 million are internally displaced. As a result, thousands of individuals have sought refuge in neighboring countries, undertaking treacherous journeys by bus, car, and foot. These dangerous conditions have led to rampant looting and carjackings, even targeting humanitarian organizations. The collapse of the Sudanese banking system has further exacerbated the refugees’ vulnerability, leaving them without access to cash for basic needs.
The overcrowding within refugee camps is another pressing concern. Prior to this conflict, approximately 800,000 refugees had already fled Sudan, often finding shelter in Chad, South Sudan, and Egypt. With the recent increase in refugees, the scarcity of essential supplies is expected to worsen. The United Nations (UN) warns of dire shortages of food, water, and fuel, along with limited access to electricity and communications. Inflation has also resulted in soaring prices for essential items, exacerbating the situation. Furthermore, challenges such as gender-based violence prevention, child care for refugee children, and psychosocial support require immediate attention within the camps. The mental health needs of refugees are a priority for the UNHCR, as many have experienced loss, family separation, separation from support systems, and the trauma of violence.
The conflict’s impact on healthcare facilities and services has been devastating. With an already weak healthcare system, Sudan’s medical services have been severely affected, experiencing severe shortages of medicine, medical supplies, and a lack of body disposal. The fleeing population rarely finds improved healthcare in their new circumstances. There is an urgent demand for nutrition and hygiene promotion programs in the camps. Without access to clean water, waterborne illnesses pose a significant threat. The scarcity of food, especially among children, has led to concerns of malnutrition. Additionally, individuals with pre-existing conditions like diabetes are suffering due to the lack of necessary medication and supplies. Malaria and dengue fever continue to affect the population, particularly children. Organizations like Doctors Without Borders are primarily focused on providing pediatric care, maternity services, and assistance for malnutrition. However, despite the pressing needs, less than 10% of the UN’s planned budget for Sudan has been approved, emphasizing the urgent requirement for additional funding.
The approaching rainy season further compounds the crisis. Ethiopia’s heavy rainfall has inflicted damage on shelters and presents a potential outbreak of diseases. In 2022, heavy rains and flooding affected approximately 349,000 people in Sudan, damaging thousands of homes and disrupting the supply chain. Notably, the White Nile region is exceptionally vulnerable to flooding, and scientists predict above-average rainfall for the year. The consequences of flooding are multi-faceted, ranging from the destruction of crops to a decrease in sanitation practices. Floods pave the way for diseases such as cholera, dysentery, and polio. The impact on water sources, healthcare facilities, and latrines exacerbates the existing challenges.
In summary, the armed conflict in Sudan has precipitated a severe humanitarian crisis, necessitating urgent aid and attention from the international community. Millions have been displaced, and neighboring countries are grappling with the influx of refugees. The scarcity of basic supplies, healthcare services, and the imminent threat of the upcoming rainy season further compound the situation. Additional funding and resources are vital to alleviate the suffering of those affected and avert further tragedy.
