Sudan’s Rapid Support Forces (RSF) announced a collaborative agreement with the UN to operationalise four airports in Zalingei, Al-Daein, Nyala, and Al-Genina to streamline humanitarian aid deliveries.
This initiative aims to alleviate the suffering of over 25 million people facing the threat of famine in Sudan.
During a telephone call last Saturday, UN Secretary-General António Guterres discussed these humanitarian efforts with Sudan’s Army Chief, Abdel Fattah al-Burhan.
A statement from the UN’s official website noted, “The Secretary-General and al-Burhan agreed on measures to facilitate the entry of humanitarian supplies into the country.”
In addition, a Sudanese government statement indicated that al-Burhan affirmed his commitment to ensuring the safe passage of humanitarian convoys.
This includes the opening of the Adri crossing point, permitting essential aid to reach those in need and underscoring readiness to cooperate with UN agencies and other international organizations in humanitarian fields.
Success in Geneva Talks
The Geneva meetings, which concluded on Friday, marked a successful negotiation regarding the reopening and expansion of humanitarian corridors. The armed forces and Rapid Support Forces have pledged to ensure unhindered aid access.
Importance of Adri Crossing Point
The Adri crossing point, crucial for facilitating aid delivery, is one of three major border crossings along the 1,400-kilometer border shared with Chad, stretching from Libya in the north to Central Africa and South Sudan in the south.
Predominantly controlled by the Rapid Support Forces, the southern and western border areas, including the crossing zone, are poised for more significant operational roles.
Urgency in Aid Delivery
With Sudan’s ongoing 16-month conflict between the army and Rapid Support Forces affecting over 70% of the country, the humanitarian situation is dire.
The UN reports indicate that over half of Sudan’s population faces acute shortages of food and medicine, exacerbating the risk of famine.
The rapid devaluation of the Sudanese pound has also severely impacted the purchasing power, with food prices soaring by over 200% in some cases.
Losses and Challenges
More than 60% of Sudanese have lost their income sources due to the conflict, and most are in desperate need of food and medical assistance.
The war’s extension to agricultural and livestock production areas, combined with the closure of most private and public sector facilities, significantly increases famine risks.
