Sudan Faces Growing Famine Risk as Countries Demand Urgent Aid

SUDAN is facing a worsening food security crisis, with dozens of countries warning that famine could spread further unless humanitarian assistance reaches vulnerable communities.

In a statement issued by the United States Department of State, the countries warned that the continuing conflict between Sudan’s army and the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces was disrupting farming, displacing families and restricting access to food and essential services, leaving millions at risk of severe hunger.

“Sudan is experiencing an alarming deterioration in its food security. The risk of famine in the coming months, as warned by the Integrated Food Security Phase Classification, needs urgent action,” the joint statement said.

The countries called on the warring parties to remove barriers preventing humanitarian organisations from delivering food, medicine and other essential supplies, particularly to vulnerable communities in Darfur.

“The parties to the conflict bear primary responsibility for alleviating the suffering of the Sudanese people,” the statement added.

The joint statement also urged both sides to allow humanitarian operations through available cross-border and crossline routes, including air access into Darfur, where aid agencies face significant difficulties reaching affected populations.

The countries further called for the protection of humanitarian workers and an end to attacks on civilian infrastructure, stressing the need to ensure that relief organisations can operate safely.

The United Nations-backed Integrated Food Security Phase Classification reported in June that 5.1 million people in Sudan faced severe hunger. The conflict, which escalated in 2023, has disrupted agricultural production, while drought has placed additional pressure on food supplies.

The war has also forced millions of people from their homes, increasing dependence on emergency food assistance and putting further pressure on communities hosting displaced families.

The statement was supported by countries including the United States, Australia, Britain, France and Germany, alongside other international partners concerned about the worsening humanitarian situation.

Humanitarian organisations continue to face obstacles in delivering assistance to people affected by the conflict. Insecurity, restrictions on movement and limited access to affected areas have complicated relief operations.

The international warning highlights the urgent need for safe humanitarian access, additional assistance and measures to protect civilians as Sudan’s conflict continues to threaten food security across the country.