Unicef Warns of Catastrophic Hunger Crisis for Children in Sudan

25th June 2024 By The Global Heroes Health

The head of Unicef, Catherine Russell, has declared Sudan one of the world's worst places for children. She highlights the severe impact of over a year of brutal civil war, resulting in the highest displacement of children globally and a growing famine crisis.

Russell's visit to Sudan comes as the country faces the collapse of its food economy, with the Sudanese army and the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) blocking essential aid deliveries. The children bear the brunt of this crisis, with nine million not getting enough to eat and nearly four million facing acute malnutrition.

“We’re long past the time to act; we need to act now, or it’s just going to get worse,” Russell urged. She emphasized the urgency, stating that for many malnourished children, it might already be too late.

A food security expert recently warned the BBC that by September, 70% of Sudan’s population could face extreme hunger, potentially leading to millions of deaths. The ongoing conflict has split the country and created a humanitarian disaster, with both warring factions exacerbating the crisis.

Russell noted that Sudan has the highest number of displaced children worldwide, with nearly all children out of school, risking a lost generation that could further destabilize the region.

Despite the dire situation, international efforts to restore peace have faltered. Russell aims to draw global attention to Sudan's plight, stressing the urgent need for intervention. "This is quite dire," she said, "and if we don’t do something, it’s hard to imagine how bad it will be.”