Sudan stands on the precipice of a devastating famine, with millions of its citizens facing starvation in the coming months. A new report by the Integrated Food Security Phase Classification (IPC), a leading famine early warning system, paints a dire picture. The IPC estimates that by September, a staggering 756,000 people in Sudan could be in “catastrophe,” the most severe level on its five-point scale.
War and Displacement Compound Food Insecurity
This alarming projection is a stark reminder of the rapidly deteriorating situation in Sudan. The country has been embroiled in a brutal civil war since April 2023. The conflict has triggered a ripple effect of crises, displacing millions of people internally, disrupting agricultural production, and hindering the ability of humanitarian organizations to deliver life-saving aid.
The IPC’s previous assessment in December 2023 provided a concerning glimpse into the growing food insecurity crisis. Back then, an estimated 17.7 million Sudanese, or 37% of the population, were facing acute food shortages. However, the latest data paints a much bleaker picture.
The IPC’s new report reveals a shocking escalation of food insecurity in Sudan. A staggering 25.6 million people, over half the country’s population, are now estimated to be facing critical food shortages. This includes more than nine million people in an emergency situation or worse.
It’s important to note that this is a preliminary analysis, and further verification by the Sudanese government and international agencies is required. However, the sheer numbers paint a grim picture.
Government Denials vs. UN Warnings
The Sudanese government has consistently denied the existence of a famine within its borders. However, UN agencies have repeatedly sounded the alarm about an impending food crisis. In May 2024, a joint statement by UN leaders highlighted the critical situation, stating that 3.6 million Sudanese children suffer from acute malnutrition.
The IPC’s five-phase scale is used to determine whether a famine should be declared. Phase 5, or “catastrophe/famine,” is characterized by widespread starvation, severe malnutrition, and extremely high death rates. The new report identifies specific areas where Phase 5 conditions could be prevalent by September. These areas include al-Fashir, the capital of North Darfur, and the Zamzam camp for internally displaced people.
The international community is pressuring the Sudanese government to facilitate unfettered humanitarian access to affected areas. The US Special Envoy to Sudan, Tom Perriello, acknowledged that pockets of famine already exist and urged a more comprehensive response.
Millions of Sudanese stand on the precipice of starvation. Time is of the essence to prevent a full-blown famine. Increased humanitarian aid, an immediate ceasefire to end the hostilities, and improved access for aid workers are all crucial steps. The coming months will be a critical test for the international community’s ability to avert a humanitarian catastrophe in Sudan.
Source: ReutersÂ
