The United Nations (UN) funding crisis is contributing to a rise in starvation and malnutrition among millions of refugees in Sudan.
The World Food Programme (WFP) warns that there could be a major cutback in the delivery of vital food assistance.
Seven neighbouring nations (Central Africa, Chad, Egypt, Ethiopia, Libya, Uganda, and South Sudan) are currently sheltering displaced Sudanese while dealing with this crisis.
Extreme food insecurity and a high degree of conflict already exist in many host countries.
BEHIND THE CAUSE
This funding crisis is currently making the UN’s operations extremely challenging.
Major donors, including the United States, have significantly reduced their spending on foreign aid.
The United States has cut some of its aid funding for the United Nations (Sudan), as well as several other countries.
Additionally, other traditional donors, such as Germany and the United Kingdom (UK), have cut back on aid spending.
As a result of this, the WFP had to make significant budget cuts.
BEHIND THE SUDAN CRISIS
The Armed Forces of Sudan’s (SAF) commander, General Abdel Fattah al-Burhan, is fighting his former subordinate, General Mohamed “Hemedti” Dagalo.
Hemedti leads the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF), embroiled in a power struggle amidst the war in Sudan.
Their disagreement centres on when and how to integrate the RSF into the SAF, a crucial step in shifting to civilian rule.
Former President Omar al-Bashir established the RSF in 2013, designing its command structure and economic networks to function as an autonomous force that would balance the military and safeguard his government from coups.
Existing problems like the collapse of economic funding, climatic crises, and violence have become worse because of this war.
The dispute between military chiefs General Burhan and General Dagalo has plunged the country into crisis and chaos.
URGENT CALL FOR ACTION
In 2025, Sudan’s humanitarian response plan only received 14.4%, or US$599.6 million (R10.9 billion), of the US$4.16 billion (R75.5 billion) needed for all domestic aid.
Despite this, over the next six months, the WFP urgently needs an extra US$200 million (roughly R3.6 billion) for its regional refugee response in neighbouring countries.
Humanitarian assistance may end if immediate funding is not provided.
With the daily influx of refugees, supplies in Chad are running low amidst the crisis.
Inside Sudan, over eight million people are on the brink of famine. Acute malnutrition disproportionately affects children, especially during critical periods.
The WFP urges the international community to mobilise additional resources.
HOW CAN THE UN STOP SUDAN FROM EXPERIENCING THIS CRISIS?
Let us know by leaving a comment below, or send a WhatsApp to 060 011 021 11.
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