As the conflict in Sudan is raging on, the humanitarian crisis has escalated to alarming levels. The ongoing power struggle between the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) and the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) has resulted in widespread violence, displacement, and food insecurity. Humanitarian organizations, including MOAS, continue to work tirelessly to alleviate the suffering of those affected. This blog provides an update on the situation in Sudan and outlines the efforts and challenges faced by our mission.
Understanding the Escalating Conflict in Sudan
The conflict began on April 15, 2023, primarily as a power struggle between two rival military factions: the SAF, led by General Abdel Fattah al-Burhan, and the RSF, headed by Mohamed Hamdan “Hemedti” Dagalo. This battle for control has plunged the country into a state of chaos, resulting in severe humanitarian consequences.
The human toll of the conflict has been devastating. Since the outbreak of violence, over 15,000 people lost their lives, and nearly 9.5 million have been displaced, resulting in the world’s worst displacement crisis, with many seeking refuge in neighbouring countries like Chad, Ethiopia, and South Sudan. The UN reports that over 25 million people now require humanitarian assistance, and the food security situation is deteriorating rapidly, posing the risk of the world’s largest hunger crisis.
Recent Developments
The situation in Sudan continues to deteriorate. Recent reports from the UN highlight the dire circumstances in El Fasher, where relentless bombardment and aerial attacks have besieged the city. The humanitarian conditions are particularly severe for pregnant women and new mothers, with thousands at risk of malnutrition if they do not receive immediate food aid and healthcare.
International Challenges
The international community is working to address the crisis, but efforts are hampered by ongoing violence and political instability. The UN Security Council has called for an immediate ceasefire and de-escalation, but these appeals have so far gone unheeded. Humanitarian aid is severely underfunded, with only 16% of the required $2.7 billion received. This funding gap puts millions of lives at risk, emphasising the urgent need for increased international support.
MOAS’ Humanitarian Efforts
In response to the crisis, MOAS has partnered with Edesia Nutrition and ADRA Sudan to deliver . This aid is crucial for combating acute malnutrition, especially among children and pregnant or breastfeeding mothers. Our efforts have already led to the recovery of hundreds of severely malnourished children, but there is still much work to be done.
In collaboration with Action Medeor and UNHCR, MOAS has also shipped to Sudan. The precarious situation in the Red Sea had delayed these shipments, highlighting our logistical challenges, but we were able to ship these vital supplies earlier this year. Ensuring access to healthcare is critical, as 70% of health facilities in conflict-affected areas are non-functional.
Updates on our Mission
Delivering aid in such a volatile environment presents numerous challenges. Security risks, including attacks on aid workers, and logistical difficulties due to destroyed infrastructure, complicate our efforts. Since the conflict began, at least 24 aid workers perished, highlighting the dangers faced by those on the ground.
But despite these challenges, we at MOAS are determined to support the innocent victims of this conflict by providing life-saving aid. Since last year, MOAS has been supplying life-saving aid to the affected population. Through partnerships with Edesia Nutrition and ADRA Sudan, we have delivered 52 tons of therapeutic food to Port Sudan, targeting acute malnutrition among children and pregnant or breastfeeding mothers. This aid is currently being distributed across the country, and we have already seen hundreds of severely malnourished children recover.
Besides providing therapeutic food, MOAS has shipped lifesaving medical supplies, in the shape of IEHK 2017 emergency kits, designed to meet the primary health needs of populations affected by emergencies like those in Sudan. The IEHK kits fill immediate medical gaps and are essential for saving lives.
We are pleased to report that this shipment has also arrived in Sudan and is currently awaiting final customs clearance before being released to UNHCR. This ais provides a critical lifeline to thousands of vulnerable individuals in the conflict-affected regions.
Final Thoughts
The need for humanitarian assistance remains critical. Our efforts, while impactful, are only possible through the generosity of our donors and the dedication of our partners. The situation in Sudan is dire, and immediate action is required to prevent further suffering and loss of life. We urge the international community to step up its support and work towards a peaceful resolution to this conflict.
Your support can make a difference. Please consider donating to help us continue our mission in Sudan and save lives. Visit www.moas.eu/donate to contribute. For more updates on our work, follow us on social media, sign up for our newsletter, or contact us at [email protected].
