The United Nations’ Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) issued a warning on Tuesday of an imminent famine that threatens 37% of Sudan’s population due to the ongoing conflict between the army and the Rapid Support Forces (RSF).
Since April 15th of this year, Sudan has been plagued by destructive fighting between the army and the RSF, resulting in the displacement of 6.3 million people, including 5.1 million internally displaced individuals and 1.2 million who sought refuge in neighboring countries.
These figures represent eight of Sudan’s states, with Khartoum having the highest percentage of displacement, according to United Nations statistics.
The conflict has caused extensive damage and massive destruction to infrastructure, including healthcare facilities, schools, roads, energy sources, water, and even communication assets.
In a statement received by “Sudan Tribune,” FAO warned that the organization sounds the alarm and urges all concerned parties to take immediate collective action to avert a humanitarian catastrophe.
The escalating conflict and ongoing economic deterioration in Sudan are exacerbating the food security crisis, FAO added.
It further explained that around 17.7 million people, representing 37% of Sudan’s population, face high levels of acute food insecurity classified in stages three and above of the Integrated Food Security Phase Classification, covering the period from October 2023 to February 2024.
The statement highlighted that the most affected population groups by food insecurity are concentrated in states witnessing military conflicts, namely Darfur, Kordofan, and the three Sudanese capital regions, Khartoum, Bahri, and Omdurman.
The statement also mentioned that the ongoing conflict, escalating violence, decreasing agricultural production, rising food prices, climate shocks, and displacement have worsened the humanitarian crisis and increased food insecurity for populations in many urban, semi-urban, and rural areas.
Hongji Yang, the representative of FAO in Sudan, stated, “In the face of alarming food security challenges, FAO reaffirms its strong commitment to supporting Sudan’s rural communities. The urgent need is clear, and our dedication is sincere, but moving forward requires more funding to sustain our vital support.”
The organization urgently requires $75.4 million, which accounts for 80% of the required funding under the revised Sudan Humanitarian Response Plan, covering the period from May to December 2023.
It emphasized that these funds are essential to meet growing needs, enhance local food production, and improve access to it throughout Sudan.
During the period from July to September of last year, FAO provided support to over a million farming families to support local food production and livelihoods.
