Sudan crisis: Over 7.3 million people displaced as conflict rages on

Since the outbreak of conflict between the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) and the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) on April 15, 2023, Sudan is experiencing the largest displacement crisis in the world.

With over 7.3 million people both internally and externally displaced.

Sudan now faces the largest child displacement crisis globally, necessitating specialised care, protection, and support for these vulnerable individuals.

The number of people displaced within Sudan has increased by approximately 500,000 in just one month.

This increase has been attributed to escalating conflict displacing people from the Al Jazira region, Kordofan, among other states.

According to the International Organization for Migration (IOM) Displacement Tracking Matrix (DTM), over 5.9 million people have been displaced across 18 states in Sudan.

The highest concentrations of internally displaced people (IDPs) are in Al Jazira, River Nile bank, South Darfur, East Darfur, and North Darfur.

Ripple effect

Neighbouring states are experiencing the ripple effect of the ongoing conflict as the numbers of Sudanese refugees continue to increase.

About 1.4 million people have crossed the borders since the conflict began. This has placed additional strain on regional resources and requires collaborative efforts to address the needs of these vulnerable refugees.

Sudan now faces the largest child displacement crisis globally. (Photo: WFP)

According to OCHA Sudan, recent clashes between the SAF and RSF have resulted in civilian casualties and widespread displacement.

The violence in Medani and Al Jazira localities has caused approximately 234,000 individuals to be displaced for the second time in December 2023.

Attacks on villages, health centres, markets, and roads have disrupted the lives of civilians, leading to further displacement and loss of life.

The complex situation in Sudan has made it difficult to deliver humanitarian aid in Sudan.

Insecurity, looting, bureaucratic obstacles, poor road and communication networks, and limited technical and humanitarian staff, among other factors, have hampered the efficient delivery of aid.

The revised 2023 Sudan Humanitarian Response Plan currently remains 40.8 per cent funded as of January 4, 2024, further making it difficult for humanitarian agencies to achieve their desired goal.