SUDAN FACES HUMANITARIAN CRISIS OF EPIC PROPORTIONS
One Year After War Erupted: A Crisis of Unprecedented Proportions
One year after war erupted between the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) and the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) on April 15, 2023, Sudan is facing one of the fastest unfolding crises globally. The country is grappling with unprecedented needs, with approximately 25 million people, including over 14 million children, requiring humanitarian assistance and support.
Conflict-Driven Crisis
The conflict has driven more than 17.7 million people into acute food insecurity (IPC3+), with a warning of potential famine issued by FEWS NET and underwritten by the Global IPC Group. Of these, 4.9 million people are on the brink of famine. The economic decline has also had devastating effects, with over 8.6 million people displaced since the conflict started.
Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs)
The IDPs are mainly from 12 states, with the majority - about 3.6 million people - from Khartoum. The IDPs have sought refuge in various parts of the country, including:
- South Darfur
- River Nile
- East Darfur
- North Darfur
- White Nile
- Sennar
Disease Outbreaks and Health Concerns
The humanitarian situation is further exacerbated by disease outbreaks, with over 11,000 suspected cholera cases reported, including 305 deaths. Other diseases such as:
- Measles
- Malaria
- Dengue fever
are also ongoing in several areas.
Impact on Children
The conflict has had a devastating impact on children, with thousands killed or injured, and many more exposed to grave protection risks, including:
- Sexual violence
- Recruitment or use in the conflict
At least 3.5 million children are projected to suffer from acute malnutrition this year, including over 700,000 who require specialized treatment.
Economic Consequences
The economy is expected to shrink by 18.3% in 2024 due to the conflict, with the International Monetary Fund (IMF) projecting a reduction in real Gross Domestic Product (GDP). The World Bank has reported that the economy contracted by 12% in 2023 as production and human capital have been halted.
Humanitarian Response
Despite various challenges affecting humanitarian assistance, organizations have reached approximately:
- 8.1 million people with life-saving support
- 5.7 million people with agriculture and livelihood support
between April and December 2023. However, more funding is needed to reach the remaining 14.7 million people in desperate need through the end of 2024.
Funding Requirements
The 2024 Sudan Humanitarian Needs and Response Plan (HNRP) is seeking US$2.7 billion from donors to provide life-saving assistance and protection services to those affected by the conflict. As of April 14, 2024, only 5.8% of the plan had been funded, with $155 million received.