A worsening food emergency in Sudan has left millions of people surviving on just one meal per day, as the country edges closer to famine, according to a recent report by major humanitarian organisations.
The ongoing conflict between the Sudanese army and the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces, now in its third year, has severely disrupted agricultural production, forced millions from their homes, and intensified what is widely described as one of the most severe humanitarian crises globally.
Findings from the report indicate that in heavily affected areas such as North Darfur and South Kordofan, many households are going entire days without food, with some resorting to consuming leaves and animal feed in order to survive.
Humanitarian agencies have cautioned that beyond the impact of conflict, the situation is being worsened by the intentional destruction of farmlands and marketplaces, heightening concerns that starvation is being weaponised in the conflict.
An estimated 28 million people — nearly two-thirds of the population — are currently facing acute food insecurity, with famine already confirmed in certain regions of the country.
Despite growing evidence of the crisis, authorities in Sudan have rejected claims that famine exists, while opposing factions have denied responsibility for conditions in territories under their control.
Women and children are bearing the brunt of the crisis. Households led by women are reportedly three times more vulnerable to food shortages, while many women face the threat of violence when attempting to secure food or water.
Meanwhile, humanitarian operations are struggling to cope, as funding shortages hamper relief efforts and community kitchens are overwhelmed by the increasing number of people in need.
