Sudan's Hunger Crisis: 25.6 Million Starving as Conflict Ravages Food Supplies
October 22, 2024Currently, more than 25.6 million people in Sudan are experiencing high levels of acute hunger, with alarming predictions that 2.5 million could die from hunger by the end of the year.
Khartoum and its surrounding areas are among the hardest hit, with approximately five million residents trapped in this conflict zone.
Residents have lost their sources of income, leading to skyrocketing prices for food and daily necessities.
In response to this crisis, free food kitchens known as Takias have been established to assist families who cannot afford food.
Over 350 Takias have been set up in Khartoum and nearby areas, providing support to around 500,000 families.
These Takias primarily rely on funding from UN agencies and donations, but they are currently facing severe shortages of funds and supplies due to the escalating conflict.
Each Takia can typically provide meals for 220 to 250 families, with offerings usually consisting of rice, millet, or beans.
The term 'Takia' refers to a place for religious rituals and serves as a sanctuary, providing food and refuge for those in need.
The ongoing conflict in Sudan has created dire conditions for residents, who are facing air strikes, shelling, and severe shortages of water, power, and food.
This conflict, primarily between the Sudanese Army and the Rapid Support Forces, has persisted for over a year, significantly disrupting agricultural production and supply chains.
As a result, Sudan is experiencing an unprecedented food crisis, with a recent UN report indicating that 97 percent of the population is facing severe hunger.
Many Takias have been forced to reduce their services, with some providing only one meal a week instead of the usual two meals a day.
Summary based on 1 source
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Source
Africanews • Oct 21, 2024
Sudan: As fighting rages, food kitchens barely maintain supply