Fighting deepens needs and fuels further displacement in Sudan

The UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) reported that ongoing fighting in Sudan is intensifying civilian suffering, particularly around El Obeid in North Kordofan, where the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) have encircled the city and threaten further assaults. Civilians are fleeing to El Obeid and nearby areas seeking safety, while humanitarian agencies provide limited aid despite severe challenges. The UN and partners have supplied two million litres of drinking water to 133,000 people amid critical shortages.

In West Darfur’s Sirba locality, clashes have displaced approximately 18,000 people from over 20 villages since last week, with most crossing into Chad. The conflict between the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) and RSF shows no signs of abating, having begun in April 2023 and creating one of the world’s most severe humanitarian crises. Over 30 million people now require assistance, and more than nine million are internally displaced.

OCHA reiterated calls for all parties to protect civilians and ensure unrestricted humanitarian access, while highlighting severe funding gaps that have forced the closure of three health facilities in Central Darfur. This has left around 75,000 displaced people without essential health services. The agency urged donors to increase support, noting that a $3 billion appeal for 2024 is only 40% funded, with $1.2 billion received so far.

The UN continues efforts to de-escalate the conflict, with the Secretary-General’s Personal Envoy for Sudan, Pekka Haavisto, engaging both the SAF and RSF. Haavisto is also coordinating with regional bodies, including the African Union, the League of Arab States, and IGAD, to secure a cessation of hostilities and advance negotiations. The UN Deputy Spokesperson confirmed ongoing diplomatic efforts to address the crisis.