UNICEF Condemns Looting of Life-Saving Supplies for Children in Sudan
A recent attack on one of the last functioning hospitals in Sudan has worsened the already dire humanitarian crisis caused by the civil war between the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) and the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF), which has been ongoing since April 2023.
Critical Supplies Stolen
Among the stolen items were 2,200 cartons of ready-to-use therapeutic food, an essential treatment for children suffering from severe acute malnutrition—a condition that can lead to fatal weight loss and muscle wasting.
Additionally, iron and folic acid supplements meant for pregnant and breastfeeding women were taken, along with midwife kits and vital primary healthcare supplies intended to support mothers, newborns, and children.
A Direct Threat to Survival
Catherine Russell, Executive Director of UNICEF, condemned the looting, stating:
“**Stealing life-saving supplies meant for malnourished children is outrageous and a direct attack on their survival.** These unconscionable acts against vulnerable children must end. All parties must adhere to international humanitarian law, protect civilians, and ensure safe and unhindered humanitarian access to those in need.”
UNICEF had successfully delivered these supplies on December 20, marking the first humanitarian shipment to Jabal Awlia in over 18 months. However, ongoing violence and the suspension of aid operations due to insecurity are pushing the region’s most vulnerable populations toward disaster.
Children at Risk of Catastrophe
Jabal Awlia is one of 17 localities at risk of famine. The region faces severe shortages of food, medicine, and other basic necessities. Ongoing fighting has blocked both commercial and humanitarian aid for over three months, leaving thousands of civilians trapped without support.
More than 4,000 people have been forced to flee, further deepening the crisis.
A Worsening Humanitarian Disaster
The crisis extends far beyond Jabal Awlia. Across Sudan, millions are facing life-threatening conditions.
– Over 24.6 million people—more than half the population—are experiencing acute food insecurity.
– The collapse of healthcare services and the closure of schools have exacerbated suffering.
– Record levels of displacement have created an unprecedented humanitarian emergency.
UNICEF’s Call for Action
Given the severe challenges, UNICEF is urging all parties to:
✔ Guarantee unhindered humanitarian access to deliver urgent aid.
✔ Protect hospitals and civilian infrastructure from attacks.
✔ Provide security guarantees for aid workers to ensure life-saving assistance reaches those in need.
Sudan’s humanitarian crisis is escalating rapidly. Without immediate intervention, the country’s most vulnerable—especially children—face an increasingly bleak future.
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