By Josephine Kekeli Amuzu
This year, U.N officials have requested $6 billion from donors to address what they describe as ‘the world’s worst ever hunger catastrophe’ and the large-scale displacement caused by Sudan’s civil war.
The appeal represents a more than 40% increase from last year’s request at a time when global aid budgets are under pressure. This is partly due to ‘a pause in funding announced by U.S. President Donald Trump last month,’ which has disrupted life-saving programs worldwide.
While no exact figures were given, Sudan’s population currently stands at approximately 48 million. The U.N. statement indicated that ‘famine conditions have been reported in at least five locations in Sudan,’ including displacement camps in Darfur, and the situation is expected to worsen due to ongoing conflict and the collapse of essential services.
U.N. Emergency Relief Coordinator Tom Fletcher emphasized the gravity of the crisis, stating, ‘This is a humanitarian crisis that is truly unprecedented in its scale and its gravity and it demands a response unprecedented in scale and intent.’
One of the famine-stricken camps recently came under attack by the RSF as the paramilitary group attempts to strengthen its control over its Darfur stronghold.
While some aid agencies have received exemptions from Washington to provide assistance in Sudan, concerns persist over ‘the extent of coverage for providing famine relief.’
The U.N’s response plan aims to assist nearly 21 million people inside the country, making it the most ambitious humanitarian effort for 2025. The initiative requires ‘$4.2 billion’ to support those within Sudan, with the remaining funds allocated for displaced populations affected by the conflict.”
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