As Sudan approaches the first anniversary of a devastating internal conflict, Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF) warns of a dire humanitarian situation. Dr. Christos Christou, MSF International President, describes the crisis as “one of the worst the world has seen for decades,” marked by immense suffering and an inadequate global response.
MSF paints a grim picture of overwhelmed medical facilities operating at a fraction of their capacity. Despite performing countless surgeries and delivering aid, MSF highlights the absence of other international organizations. Dr. Christou emphasizes, “Before the war, there were dozens of responders… Now, there are almost none.” This lack of support compounds the pressure on a healthcare system already reeling from violence.
The situation is further exacerbated by a “systematic blockage” of humanitarian aid by Sudanese Armed Forces. Essential medical supplies and personnel are prevented from reaching many areas. Hospitals like the Turkish Hospital in Khartoum are left with only 20% of their stock, lacking basic medications like lifesaving artesunate for malaria.
The consequences of these blockades are deadly. Patients succumb not only to conflict injuries but also to preventable diseases. The situation in Zamzam camp, North Darfur, exemplifies the crisis. Here, a quarter of children screened suffer from acute malnutrition, with a similar proportion among pregnant women. This translates to a devastating mortality rate of 2.5 deaths per 10,000 people daily.
In February, MSF issued a desperate plea for an immediate and coordinated scaling-up of the humanitarian response, particularly in North Darfur. Food, cash assistance, healthcare, and clean water are desperately needed. However, Dr. Christou laments, “no-one came.”
He condemns the international community’s failure to act, highlighting the tragic deaths of women and chronically ill patients due to lack of resources. MSF urges the UN and other entities to redouble their efforts and secure safe access for aid delivery. Warring parties must also uphold international law and the Jeddah accord by protecting civilians and facilitating aid access. Lifting blockades, opening borders, and ensuring airport functionality are crucial steps to avert further catastrophe.