The leading expert on food crises globally has identified famine in two regions of conflict-ridden Sudan. Specifically, famine has been confirmed in the cities of El Fasher and Kadugli, located in the Darfur region and South Kordofan province, respectively. These areas are facing severe food shortages, malnutrition, and death due to the collapse of livelihoods. Additionally, twenty other regions in Darfur and South Kordofan are at high risk of famine as a result of escalating conflicts.

El Fasher, besieged by the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) for 18 months, recently fell to the group, leading to reports of mass killings and attacks on civilians. Similar dire circumstances are observed in Kadugli, which has also been under RSF siege for an extended period. The situation has resulted in a significant number of people facing famine, with over 375,000 individuals affected in Darfur and South Kordofan. Moreover, 6.3 million people across Sudan are experiencing critical levels of food insecurity.

The ongoing power struggle between the military and RSF in Sudan since April 2023 has resulted in over 40,000 fatalities and forced more than 14 million people from their homes. Efforts are being made to establish a humanitarian truce, with the United States engaging with both sides in the conflict. Meanwhile, the International Criminal Court is working to preserve evidence from recent violent incidents in Darfur.

The International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) has highlighted the urgent need for food, water, and medical assistance for civilians trapped in El Fasher. The situation is dire, with surrounding towns also facing the threat of famine. The IPC has emphasized the necessity of a ceasefire to prevent further loss of life and mitigate the acute food insecurity and malnutrition crisis in the region.