A humanitarian crisis is escalating in the western Darfur region of war-torn Sudan, with famine looming in additional areas, according to the Integrated Food Security Phase Classification (IPC). The ongoing conflict between the military and the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) has led to acute malnutrition reaching critical levels in two more towns in Darfur. The recent attack by paramilitary forces on a military hospital in South Kordofan province resulted in the tragic deaths of 22 individuals, including medical staff. This incident is part of a series of assaults that have rendered multiple hospitals inoperable in the region. The war in Sudan has already claimed over 40,000 lives, with millions forced to flee their homes.
The IPC report highlighted that Umm Baru and Kernoi in North Darfur province are facing famine-level malnutrition. In Umm Baru, nearly 53% of children under five years old are suffering from acute malnutrition, surpassing the famine threshold. In Kernoi, 32% of children are also experiencing malnutrition. The report expressed concerns about the potential for increased mortality rates and warned that neighboring areas might be facing similar catastrophic conditions.
Since the onset of the civil war in Sudan, famine has been officially confirmed in seven regions. However, confirming famine in Umm Baru and Kernoi remains challenging due to limited access and data availability required to meet the famine confirmation criteria. The fall of El Fasher to the RSF triggered a mass exodus to nearby towns, exacerbating food insecurity in the region.
The IPC emphasized the urgent need for a sustained ceasefire to prevent further suffering and loss of life in Sudan. The ongoing conflict in Kordofan has disrupted food production and supply chains, leading to extreme hunger in besieged and isolated areas. Efforts are underway to mobilize international support for humanitarian aid in Sudan, with the establishment of the Sudan Humanitarian Fund receiving substantial contributions from the United Arab Emirates and the United States.
