The primary global organization monitoring food crises has identified famine in two regions of conflict-ridden Sudan, particularly in El Fasher, where paramilitary units have allegedly carried out extensive killings. The Integrated Food Security Phase Classification (IPC) published a report, stating that famine is present in El Fasher and Kadugli, located in the Darfur region and South Kordofan province, respectively. Both areas have witnessed a complete breakdown of livelihoods, severe malnutrition, starvation, and fatalities. Additionally, twenty other regions in Darfur and South Kordofan, where conflicts have escalated recently, are also facing a risk of famine.
El Fasher has been besieged by the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) for 18 months, resulting in the isolation of a significant portion of the population from essential supplies. Subsequently, after capturing the city last week, reports emerged of widespread killings and assaults on civilians by the RSF, with hundreds reported dead. Kadugli has similarly endured an RSF siege, with tens of thousands of residents trapped inside as the group aims to expand its territory at the expense of the Sudanese military.
The World Food Program previously confirmed famine in ten areas based on IPC data in April. Since April 2023, Sudan has been embroiled in a power struggle between the military and RSF, resulting in over 40,000 reported deaths according to UN estimates. However, aid organizations believe the actual death toll could be significantly higher. The conflict has displaced over 14 million people, leading to disease outbreaks and food shortages in parts of the country.
Efforts are being made to establish a humanitarian truce in Sudan, with a U.S. envoy disclosing collaboration with both conflicting parties. Simultaneously, International Criminal Court prosecutors are working to preserve evidence from recent violent incidents in Darfur. The report indicates that around 375,000 individuals have plunged into famine in Darfur and South Kordofan by September, with an additional 6.3 million facing critical food insecurity nationwide.
Save the Children reported in September that food supplies had depleted in Kadugli due to escalating violence, prompting tens of thousands to flee amidst roadblocks hindering escape routes. The IPC highlights that Dilling in South Kordofan is facing similar challenges to Kadugli but lacks sufficient data to declare famine. The RSF, post the recapture of Khartoum earlier this year, has focused on consolidating control over Darfur and South Kordofan to secure supply routes to the central regions of the country.
The IPC has defined famine based on specific criteria, including severe food scarcity, acute malnutrition among children, and malnutrition-related deaths. Famine has been officially confirmed only on rare occasions, with recent instances in northern Gaza, Somalia in 2011, South Sudan in 2017 and 2020, and parts of Sudan’s Darfur region last year. The report stresses that neighboring towns like Tawila, Melit, and Tawisha are also at risk of famine, having received a significant influx of displaced individuals from El Fasher. The IPC advocates for a ceasefire as a crucial step to prevent further loss of life and address acute food insecurity and malnutrition levels.
Additionally, the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) President, Mirjana Spoljaric, highlighted the dire situation in El Fasher, where tens of thousands remain trapped without access to essential supplies. The report underscores the urgency of the situation in these regions, urging immediate action to prevent further deterioration.