On April 15, 2023, violent clashes erupted between the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) and the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF), resulting in the displacement of more than 8.6 million people, including internally displaced persons (IDPs), asylum seekers, and refugees. This conflict has exacerbated many of Sudan’s existing challenges, including ongoing conflicts, disease outbreaks, economic and political instability, and climate emergencies.

Here’s What You Need to Know:

1. When did the crisis in Sudan begin?
2. Where are people impacted by the conflict fleeing to?
3. Which groups are vulnerable due to displacement and conflict?
4. How is Humanity Increased helping those affected by the conflict?
5. How can you help?

When Did the Crisis in Sudan Begin?

Before the current conflict, Sudan had already been grappling with violence and displacement since the onset of the Darfur crisis in 2003. Sudan was home to more than 1 million refugees, the second-highest refugee population in Africa, primarily from South Sudan and Northern Ethiopia, fleeing conflict in Tigray.

The recent fighting between the SAF and RSF erupted when Sudan was already experiencing its highest levels of humanitarian need in a decade. The removal of long-time authoritarian leader Omar al-Bashir in 2019 initially sparked optimism for a return to civilian rule. However, a military coup in 2021 dissolved the transitional civilian government, leading to political and economic turmoil and reigniting intercommunal conflicts.

Additionally, Sudan has been severely impacted by climate change, with extreme weather events such as floods and droughts affecting hundreds of thousands of individuals, leading to crop and livestock destruction and exacerbating food insecurity for families.

Since the recent clashes began on April 15, 2023, the humanitarian situation has deteriorated significantly. Half of Sudan’s population—approximately 25 million people—now require humanitarian assistance and protection. The country faces extreme shortages of food, water, medicine, and fuel, with nearly 18 million people facing acute food insecurity, 5 million of whom are at emergency levels.

Where Are People Impacted by the Conflict Fleeing To?

The lack of basic necessities, combined with violence and uncertainty, has forced many people to flee their homes. As of April 2024, one year since the crisis began, more than 8.6 million people have been displaced. This includes more than 6.5 million people displaced within Sudan and over 2 million people who have fled to neighboring countries.

Chad has received the largest number of people (571,815), followed by Egypt (500,000), South Sudan (135,085), Ethiopia (33,389), and the Central African Republic (23,286). In South Sudan, most of those arriving are returning nationals who had been living in Sudan as refugees.

Without a resolution to the crisis, hundreds of thousands more people will be compelled to flee in search of refuge and basic assistance.

Which Groups Are Vulnerable Due to Displacement and Conflict?

The ongoing humanitarian crisis in Sudan has a devastating impact on women and children. Even before the recent fighting, more than 3 million women and girls in Sudan were at risk of gender-based violence, including intimate-partner violence. The conflict has further exacerbated these risks.

Attacks on healthcare facilities, equipment, and workers are depriving women and girls of lifesaving care, with pregnant women being the hardest hit. Nearly three-quarters of health facilities are out of service, and diseases such as cholera, measles, and malaria are spreading rapidly. Additionally, two-thirds of the population lack access to healthcare.

The conflict has also deprived about 12 million children of education since April 2023, with the total number of children out of school reaching 19 million. According to the World Health Organization, one in seven children faces acute malnutrition.

How Is Humanity Increased Helping Those Affected by the Conflict?

Humanity Increased is dedicated to providing critical support to those affected by the Sudan crisis. Our efforts include:

• Emergency Shelter and Housing: Distributing shelter kits and materials to help displaced families rebuild their homes.
• Clean Water and Sanitation: Ensuring access to safe drinking water and sanitation facilities to prevent disease outbreaks.
• Food Security: Providing food aid and nutritional support to combat malnutrition, particularly among children and the elderly.
• Health and Medical Services: Offering medical care, vaccinations, and mental health support to address both immediate and long-term health needs.
• Protection Services: Providing protection and legal assistance, particularly for women and children, to safeguard against exploitation and abuse.
• Education Support: Supporting educational initiatives to ensure children continue their studies despite the crisis.

How Can You Help?

The humanitarian needs in Sudan are immense and ongoing. Contributions to Humanity Increased can make a significant impact. Here are ways you can help:

• Donate: Financial contributions support our comprehensive aid programs, ensuring resources are allocated where they are most needed.
• Volunteer: Offer your time and skills to support our initiatives on the ground or remotely.
• Raise Awareness: Share information about the humanitarian crisis in Sudan to encourage broader support and engagement.

Conclusion

The humanitarian crisis in Sudan requires sustained and multifaceted support. By understanding the complexities of the challenges faced and contributing to the efforts of organizations like Humanity Increased, we can help alleviate suffering and build a more resilient future for those affected. Your support and generosity are crucial in making a lasting difference in the lives of millions in Sudan.