Sudan's Dual Crisis: Conflict and Floods Displace Millions, Escalate Famine and Disease Outbreaks
August 26, 2024Since April 2023, Sudan has been engulfed in a brutal conflict between the military and the Rapid Support Forces (RSF), which has severely damaged civilian infrastructure and health services.
This conflict has triggered the largest displacement crisis globally, with over 10 million people displaced, including more than 2 million who have fled to neighboring countries.
The ongoing humanitarian crisis has been exacerbated by severe flooding, which has resulted in at least 132 fatalities and displaced over 118,000 people this year.
Recent torrential rains caused the collapse of the Arbaat Dam in eastern Sudan, leading to flooding that has claimed at least 30 lives and left many missing.
While the Sudanese health ministry confirmed four fatalities from the dam collapse, local officials estimate the death toll could be as high as 60.
Refugee camps are now overcrowded and also affected by flooding, with aid organizations warning that impassable roads are hindering food transportation.
The combination of flooding and ongoing conflict has made it increasingly difficult to control a cholera outbreak, alongside rising cases of other diseases such as dengue fever and meningitis.
Cholera is particularly rampant in Kassala, Gedaref, and Jazirah states, where flooding, poor sanitation, and contaminated drinking water have worsened the situation.
In response, the UNHCR is collaborating with various health organizations to enhance cholera prevention efforts and improve health services in affected communities.
Experts have warned that starvation has escalated into famine in major camps for displaced people in Darfur, affecting approximately 25.6 million people across the country.
The humanitarian response in Sudan is critically underfunded, with only 37% of the required funds secured for the inter-agency response, further complicating relief efforts.
The RSF's actions have devastated urban and agricultural areas, leading to unprecedented hunger in regions that were once fertile.
Summary based on 23 sources
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Sources
The Guardian • Aug 26, 2024
Flood surge in Sudan bursts dam, destroying villages and killing dozensBBC News • Aug 25, 2024
Sudan war: Famine rages as peace talks fall short yet againBBC News • Aug 26, 2024
Sudan dam collapses in Red Sea state killing 60Yahoo News • Aug 26, 2024
A dam collapses in eastern Sudan after heavy rainfall. Local media report dozens missing