Sudan Roundup: Humanitarian crisis, graduates to join Sudan war, peace talks

Humanitarian crisis

Violence in al-Fashir, Sudan has blocked a humanitarian corridor from Chad, leading to warnings of mass displacement and famine in Darfur. Both the army and paramilitary forces are worsening hunger by looting or blocking aid. Satellite imagery shows widespread destruction, and the malnutrition crisis in refugee camps is escalating, reports media agency Al Mayadeen. The UN and aid agencies are criticised for not doing enough to prevent catastrophe.

Sudan at risk of famine

The United Nations warns of a looming famine in Sudan, citing catastrophic food insecurity and escalating tensions. They are calling for increased funding and expanded humanitarian access to prevent a humanitarian disaster. The situation in El Fasher, North Darfur, is particularly alarming, with clashes and violence posing a threat to aid efforts. Local media Sudan Tribune indicated that without urgent action, millions of Sudanese could suffer from food scarcity and deprivation of basic needs.

Christians lament the humanitarian crisis in Sudan

Christian leaders in the UK have united to lament the humanitarian crisis in Sudan, calling it one of the greatest catastrophes of our time, the Catholic Herald reported. More than 8.5 million Sudanese have been forced to flee their homes due to the civil war, and 10.5 million are now displaced with over 25 million in need of humanitarian aid. Despite this, a new poll shows that only five per cent of British adults think that Sudan is currently experiencing the world’s largest humanitarian crisis, indicating a lack of awareness and highlighting the urgent need for expanded access and resources to aid those in need.

Peace talks

Kenya will host South Sudan's peace talks starting on May 10, with former army commander Lazurus Sumbeiywo leading the mediation. The EastAfrican media explained that the hold-out groups, who initially resisted the talks, have now accepted Kenyan-led mediation. The SPLM-IO, a key stakeholder, is demanding to be included in the negotiations with the hold-out group. President Kiir is committed to welcoming back defectors and engaging in constructive dialogue.

Graduates to join Sudan war

RSF paramilitary graduates in Saudi Arabia completed training and are expected to join the war in Sudan, a move rejected by Sudan. The conflict has resulted in thousands of deaths and injuries and has destroyed medical facilities. The head of Sudan's Transitional Sovereignty Council has stated that negotiations will not take place as long as the war continues, reports the US News. The Sudanese Army has recaptured towns neighbouring Babanusa from the RSF.