Sudan: UN Alerts to Unprecedented Child Hunger in Darfur Amid Fighting and Refugee Exodus

The war that erupted in April 2023 between the Sudanese Armed Forces and the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces has severely damaged civilian infrastructure, disrupted essential services, and sparked a major displacement crisis. A nutritional survey in Um Baru, North Darfur, one of the regions hardest hit by the conflict, revealed that over half of children under five suffer from acute malnutrition. According to UNICEF, these malnutrition rates are among the highest recorded, and without immediate humanitarian access, children face life-threatening risks. The survey assessed about 500 children and noted acute malnutrition in 53 percent, far exceeding the World Health Organization’s emergency threshold. Severe acute malnutrition affected 18 percent of these children, a condition that can be fatal within weeks if untreated. Catherine Russell, UNICEF’s Executive Director, emphasized the urgency of the situation, stating that time is critical for these children. North Darfur is at the center of Sudan’s food crisis, with intensified conflict around El Fasher, which fell after a protracted siege. Many displaced families in Um Baru fled from El Fasher since October. UNICEF reported that displaced children are missing routine vaccinations, particularly against measles, increasing their vulnerability. The survey also highlighted high mortality rates due to hunger, disease, and lack of services. Despite prepositioning supplies like therapeutic foods, UNICEF calls for comprehensive health and nutrition services due to the emergency’s severity. Humanitarian access is severely restricted. In late December, a UN team managed a security assessment visit in El Fasher but reported extreme shortages of essentials. Aid convoys have been blocked for months, forcing mass civilian displacement. Refugee movements to Chad are increasing as conditions worsen. The UNHCR noted around 19,400 Sudanese refugees crossing into Chad since late October. Women and children make up 87 percent of newcomers, many traumatized by violence. Over 2,700 unaccompanied children and more than 1,100 people with disabilities have been recorded since late October. Despite risks, roughly 250 refugees daily are entering Chad. A Sudanese army drone hit a Chadian troop position at the Tiné border, briefly halting humanitarian efforts, underscoring the precarious conditions for aid delivery.