Several areas south of Sudan’s capital, Khartoum, are facing a severe risk of famine, the World Food Programme (WFP) announced on Tuesday. The dire situation is exacerbated by a significant funding shortfall for food aid, as humanitarian needs on the ground far outstrip available resources.
Laurent Bukera, WFP Country Director in Sudan, speaking from Port Sudan via video link, confirmed the “severe” levels of hunger, destitution, and desperation observed in these regions, signaling a confirmed risk of famine. Jebel Awlia was cited as one such locality experiencing severe hunger.
The WFP has managed to reach one million people across seven localities in Khartoum after finally gaining access to the capital. However, the agency is facing a critical funding gap of $500 million for emergency food and cash assistance, which has led to reduced rations of oil and pulses in its food distributions. Nutritional supplements for young children and pregnant and nursing mothers are also out of reach due to the lack of resources.
The ongoing conflict in Sudan, which erupted in April 2023 between the army and the rival Rapid Support Forces (RSF), has displaced millions and divided the country into rival zones. While the army recently took control of Khartoum from the RSF in late March, the devastation and humanitarian crisis persist.
In April, the WFP had already been forced to reduce rations in famine-risk areas to 70% of a standard WFP ration (equivalent to 2100 kcal per day). The WFP is currently assisting four million people across Sudan, but without urgent support, they warn they will be unable to deliver the necessary food packages to the Sudanese people.
Melissa Enoch
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