United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres has expressed deep concern over the escalating food insecurity in Sudan, warning of famine conditions in several regions and the deteriorating access to essential nutrition for millions across the country.
A statement from the Secretary-General’s spokesperson on Wednesday highlighted findings from the Integrated Food Security Phase Classification (IPC) Famine Review Committee, which reported famine conditions in at least five locations in Sudan. Additionally, five other areas have been identified as being at high risk in the coming months.
After more than 20 months of conflict, over 24.6 million Sudanese are now facing acute food insecurity, according to a UN-backed assessment. The crisis, exacerbated by ongoing hostilities, has made it increasingly difficult for aid organizations to deliver critical food supplies and support to vulnerable populations.
“The UN and our partners are scaling up the delivery of food assistance and other essential support for the most vulnerable,” the statement read. However, it emphasized that the continued fighting and restrictions on the movement of aid personnel and supplies pose significant challenges to relief operations.
Call for Action
The Secretary-General reiterated his call for all parties involved in the conflict to ensure “rapid, safe, unhindered, and sustained access” for humanitarian aid and personnel to reach those in need, regardless of their location.
He also emphasized the urgent necessity for a cessation of hostilities, noting that continued violence threatens to worsen the humanitarian crisis not only within Sudan but also in neighboring countries already grappling with its spillover effects.
Appeal for International Support
Guterres appealed to the international community to step up efforts to resolve the conflict peacefully through a lasting ceasefire and to increase funding for humanitarian relief. “Urgent international cooperation is needed to save lives, prevent further deterioration of the crisis, and bring the parties closer to peace,” he stated.
Humanitarian Impact
The crisis in Sudan has seen millions displaced, with many seeking refuge in neighboring countries. The situation has placed immense strain on Sudan’s fragile infrastructure and heightened the risk of regional instability.
Despite ongoing challenges, the UN and its partners remain committed to scaling up aid delivery and addressing the pressing needs of Sudan’s population. However, the Secretary-General warned that without immediate action to address the root causes of the conflict and secure international support, the crisis is poised to deepen further in 2025.
The UN’s call for collective action underscores the urgent need to alleviate suffering and pave the way for a sustainable resolution to Sudan’s protracted crisis.
