NGOs report that Sudanese people face a severe famine crisis as the civil war enters its third year. Millions survive on just one meal per day, with many families forced to eat leaves and animal feed to stay alive.
A recent report from international non-profit organizations such as Action Against Hunger, CARE International, and the Norwegian Refugee Council reveals that millions in Sudan are suffering from severe hunger, with most able to eat only "one meal a day," and some going several days without food.
The civil war between the Sudanese army and the Rapid Support Forces (RSF), approaching its third year on 15 Apr, has created one of the world's largest humanitarian crises. The hardest-hit areas are North Darfur and South Kordofan, where people resort to eating leaves and animal feed due to severe food shortages.
Data shows that over 28.9 million people, or 61.7% of the country, face critical food insecurity. In Um Baru town, the rate of severe malnutrition among children under five is twice the famine threshold. Female-headed households are three times more likely to face hunger than those led by males.
The report states that the war has deliberately destroyed agriculture and markets, using "hunger" as a weapon of war. Additionally, women and girls face increased risks of sexual abuse and threats whenever they seek water or food sources.
Although the United Nations has confirmed famine conditions in Al-Fashir and Kadugli, the Sudanese government aligned with the military continues to deny the existence of famine, while the RSF denies responsibility in areas under its control.
Currently, international aid faces major obstacles due to budget cuts from key donors, directly impacting relief agencies' ability to provide assistance amid the worsening crisis.
. Reuters