The escalating food crisis in Sudan has reached catastrophic levels, with nearly half of the population grappling with acute hunger. The World Food Programme (WFP) is sounding the alarm on the urgent need for unobstructed access to deliver life-saving aid. With the rainy season looming, many regions could soon become inaccessible by road, exacerbating the already dire situation. Despite significant efforts to expand assistance, bureaucratic hurdles and conflict-related obstructions continue to hinder operations.

WFP's interventions have helped mitigate famine risks in some areas but millions remain vulnerable. Meanwhile, the regional impact of the crisis extends beyond Sudan's borders, with neighboring countries hosting over a million refugees. Flexible funding is essential to sustain these critical operations amidst an ever-changing operational landscape.

Addressing Hunger Amidst Conflict Challenges

In the face of prolonged conflict, addressing widespread hunger in Sudan presents immense challenges. The WFP estimates that 24.6 million people are experiencing severe food insecurity, while catastrophic hunger affects 638,000 individuals. Famine conditions have been confirmed in ten locations, primarily in North Darfur and the Western Nuba Mountains. In the most affected regions, alarming rates of child malnutrition surpass established famine thresholds, highlighting the urgency of intervention.

Despite these daunting figures, WFP's ongoing operations have achieved notable successes. Regular food or cash assistance has reached nearly one million people in Central and West Darfur since June 2024, reducing famine risks in eight areas. However, continued access remains precarious due to ongoing hostilities and administrative impediments. The organization has transported substantial quantities of food into Darfur through reopened border crossings, yet emergency hunger persists. Prepositioning supplies in strategic locations across Darfur is crucial to ensure timely delivery to communities facing famine or at risk of it.

Expanding Humanitarian Reach Beyond Borders

As the crisis deepens within Sudan, its humanitarian implications extend regionally. Over a million individuals have sought refuge in South Sudan since the onset of the conflict. Here, WFP provides essential nutritional support, including fortified biscuits and hot meals, to new arrivals. Additionally, nutrition programs for children and mothers at border areas aim to alleviate the immediate impacts of displacement.

In Chad, the influx of nearly one million refugees and returnees from Sudan has placed additional strain on resources. Since the beginning of the civil conflict, WFP has assisted one million individuals, encompassing refugees, returnees, and host communities. Sustaining these operations necessitates substantial financial commitments. WFP urgently requires $650 million to maintain operations in Sudan for the next six months. Flexible funding mechanisms are vital to enable rapid adaptation to evolving circumstances, ensuring comprehensive humanitarian coverage both within Sudan and its neighboring regions.