The World Food Programme (WFP) has reported a critical situation in Sudan, where an overwhelming majority of the population is struggling with hunger due to the ongoing conflict now entering its tenth month.
According to a formal statement from the United Nations-affiliated body on Wednesday, the conflict has edged the nation towards a precipice of collapse.
Eddie Rowe, the WFP Director in Sudan, emphasized the gravity of the situation, stating that at this point, less than 5% of Sudanese can secure a full meal per day.
He elaborated on the mass abandonment of agricultural lands as residents flee conflict zones, predicting a further intensification of the crisis with the approaching hunger season and affirming, "Sudan is on the brink of collapse."
The United Nations has highlighted that over half of Sudan's population, exceeding 48 million, nearly 25 million individuals, now require aid.
Among these, 18 million face severe food insecurity. Alarmingly, about five million are on the cusp of catastrophe, ranking just below famine in the WFP's emergency classification scale.
Michael Dunford, WFP's Regional Director for East Africa, expressed significant concerns regarding data availability to conclusively determine whether the thresholds for an actual famine declaration in Sudan have been met.
He underlined the challenges in reaching those in need, with WFP managing to assist only 10% of the affected population, stating, "Large areas of the country are simply beyond our reach."
Violent clashes between the Sudanese military and the Rapid Support Forces continue to ravage various parts of Sudan since April 15, with both factions vying for control over strategic locations, including the presidential palace and key military and civilian airports.
Despite mediation efforts by various regional, African, and international entities, a lasting ceasefire remains elusive.
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