How $500m in missing aid threatens millions in Sudan: summary

What we know

• Several areas south of Sudan’s capital, Khartoum, are at risk of famine, according to the World Food Programme (WFP).
• The WFP has reached one million people in seven localities in Khartoum after gaining access to the city.
• Sudan’s conflict between the army and the Rapid Support Forces (RSF), ongoing since April 2023, has displaced millions and created divided zones of control.
• In late March, the army retook Khartoum from the RSF, which had previously blocked aid access.
• Jebel Awli, north-central Sudan, was identified by the WFP as one locality with severe hunger.
• Due to a $500 million funding shortfall, the WFP has reduced food rations and cannot provide supplements for young children and pregnant or nursing mothers.
• Rations in famine-risk areas have been cut to 70% of a standard WFP ration (equivalent to 2100 kcal per day).
• The WFP is currently assisting four million people across Sudan.
• Donor states have reduced humanitarian contributions, further limiting the agency’s capacity.

What they said

“The level of hunger and destitution and desperation that was found (is) severe and confirmed the risk of famine in those areas,” said Laurent Bukera, WFP Country Director in Sudan, speaking to reporters in Geneva via video link from Port Sudan. He added, “Supplements for young children and pregnant and nursing mothers are out of reach because of a lack of resources … Without urgent support we will not be able to deliver the food package that the Sudanese need.”