As Sudan enters the third year of its civil war, the humanitarian crisis deepens, marked by increasing atrocities and widespread famine. The United Nations has labeled it the world’s worst humanitarian crisis, with dire consequences for the population. Last month, the Sudanese military gained a significant victory by recapturing the capital, Khartoum, from the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF). However, this victory has only ushered the conflict into a new phase, potentially leading to a de facto partition of the country.
Recently, RSF fighters attacked two refugee camps in the western Darfur region, claiming the lives of at least 300 people. The Zamzam and Abu Shouk camps, home to around 700,000 displaced Sudanese, are grappling with famine, and aid workers are unable to reach them due to ongoing hostilities. Half of Sudan’s population, which stands at 50 million, is facing hunger. The World Food Program has confirmed famine in ten locations, warning that it could expand, endangering millions more.
The conflict began on April 15, 2023, as tensions between the military, led by Gen. Abdel-Fattah Burhan, and RSF commander Mohammed Hamdan Dagalo escalated into violence. These former allies turned adversaries in a struggle for power, resulting in brutal battles that have devastated Khartoum and displaced nearly 13 million people, with 4 million seeking refuge in neighboring countries. The death toll is estimated at over 20,000, with atrocities committed by both sides.
Despite the military’s symbolic recapture of Khartoum, the RSF remains entrenched in the western and southern regions of Sudan, including Darfur and Kordofan. The military controls much of the north, east, and center. Experts suggest the situation resembles a de facto partition, with both sides experiencing combat fatigue, yet neither able to decisively defeat the other. The RSF, weakened by internal divisions, still maintains access to weapons and resources backed by regional support.
The famine crisis is particularly severe in the North Darfur province, where the RSF has besieged the Zamzam camp. Residents, trapped by conflict, face starvation and have resorted to eating grass and leaves. The WFP warns that famine could soon spread to other regions, exacerbating the plight of 25 million people already facing acute hunger. The economic situation is dire, with a 40% GDP drop and widespread unemployment.
Although the military’s territorial gains have allowed some aid to reach displaced populations, the humanitarian response is severely underfunded. Only a fraction of the required $4.2 billion has been received, leaving millions without essential support. In areas retaken by the military, returning residents find their homes destroyed and depend on local charities for sustenance.
The Human Angle Explored
The ongoing civil war in Sudan has profound implications for the ordinary people caught in its crossfire. With the conflict entering its third year, the humanitarian needs are staggering, affecting daily life for millions. The food shortages and famine conditions pose an existential threat, with the potential to destabilize entire communities and regions further.
Economic hardship exacerbates the crisis, as the country’s GDP continues to plummet, and unemployment rates soar. This environment fosters a climate of uncertainty and insecurity, impacting the quality of life and hindering access to basic services. The displacement of millions has strained resources in neighboring countries, while internal divisions and the partition of regions threaten the nation’s unity and future stability.
For everyday Sudanese, survival is a daily struggle amid conflict and scarcity. International aid remains critical, yet it is insufficient to meet the growing needs. The international community’s response and continued engagement could play a pivotal role in alleviating the crisis and fostering a path toward peace and recovery. As the world watches, the resilience and spirit of the Sudanese people remain the cornerstone of hope in these challenging times.