The United Nations (UN) Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) has warned that civilians face growing danger around El Obeid, capital of North Kordofan, where the RSF have effectively encircled the city.
People are fleeing towards El Obeid and surrounding areas in search of safety and humanitarian assistance as fears of a ground assault grow. Despite insecurity and severe water shortages, the UN and partners have provided two million litres of drinking water to about 133 000 people in the area.
Meanwhile, fighting in Sirba locality in West Darfur has displaced about 18 000 people from more than 20 villages since last week, according to the International Organisation for Migration. Most have reportedly crossed into neighbouring Chad.
The Sudanese Armed Forces and former allies the RSF have been fighting since April 2023, creating one of the world’s worst humanitarian emergencies.
More than 30 million people require humanitarian assistance, while more than nine million people are internally displaced. OCHA again called on all parties to protect civilians and facilitate rapid, safe, unhindered and sustained humanitarian access.
Funding shortages are also reducing the assistance available to affected communities. Three health facilities in Central Darfur have closed because of insufficient funding, leaving about 75 000 displaced people without adequate access to essential healthcare.
The UN’s nearly $3 billion humanitarian appeal for Sudan is only just over 40% funded, with $1.2 billion received to date. OCHA urged donors to provide additional resources as humanitarian needs continue to grow.
Diplomatic efforts are continuing alongside the humanitarian response. UN Secretary-General’s Personal Envoy for Sudan Pekka Haavisto remains engaged with the warring parties. “He has been able to have meetings with both of the sides, and is trying to work with them,” UN Deputy Spokesperson Farhan Haq said.
Haq said Haavisto is also working with the African Union, League of Arab States and Intergovernmental Authority on Development to secure a cessation of hostilities and advance negotiations. The UN warned that greater civilian protection, humanitarian access and donor funding are urgently needed as fighting continues to displace communities and undermine essential services across Sudan.
–OCHA/ChannelAfrica–
