The UN Humanitarian Coordinator in Sudan warns of escalating violence in South Kordofan and Blue Nile, highlighting the death toll and critical humanitarian needs. Reports indicate severe shortages of medical supplies and rising malnutrition. The call for de-escalation and humanitarian access is urgent as the ongoing conflict leads to increasing civilian suffering.
The UN Humanitarian Coordinator in Sudan, Clementine Nkweta-Salami, has expressed grave concerns regarding the escalating violence in South Kordofan and Blue Nile states. She highlighted the alarming rate of conflicts, particularly the recent hostilities in Kadugli, South Kordofan, which have resulted in at least 80 civilian deaths and numerous injuries. Reports indicating the use of women and children as human shields, alongside impediments to humanitarian aid, have further exacerbated the situation.
The humanitarian crisis in Blue Nile state also remains severe, with a continuous threat of violence and mobilization for conflict. Nkweta-Salami warns that the ongoing insecurity could lead both states into an even deeper humanitarian crisis. Civilians have long struggled to access essential support and services due to a shortage of medical supplies and limited humanitarian access, aggravated by relentless conflict.
Nkweta-Salami emphasized that food insecurity is increasingly evident in South Kordofan, where families are reportedly existing on unsustainable food rations, leading to a sharp rise in malnutrition. She cautioned that continued fighting would further deny people access to essential assistance, exacerbating human suffering and causing more fatalities.
The struggle for control between the Sudanese army and the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) has persisted since April 2023, resulting in ongoing violence. The UN official urged all involved parties to work towards de-escalating tensions and to ensure the protection of civilians and infrastructure while allowing safe humanitarian access to those in critical need.
In summary, the escalating violence in South Kordofan and Blue Nile states poses an urgent humanitarian crisis, with significant risks to civilian lives and well-being. The UN Humanitarian Coordinator has called for immediate action to de-escalate tensions and ensure access to essential aid to prevent further deterioration of the situation. Without urgent intervention, the suffering of the affected populations is expected to intensify further.
Original Source: news.un.org
