Sudan: CAFOD calls for urgent aid as famine looms

Lives disrupted in Sudan. Image: Caritas

The conference in Paris on 15 April, led by organisers France, Germany, and the European Union, emphasised the urgent need to end the war in Sudan, guarantee full, safe, and unhindered humanitarian access, and mobilise funding to reach those most in need.

Kayode Akintola, Head of Region for Africa at CAFOD, said: "We welcome the pledges made by various countries to support relief efforts in Sudan and its neighbouring countries. However, the pledges fall far short of the US$2.7 billion urgently needed to address the scale of this crisis.

"Now donors must honour their commitments and disburse pledges as quickly as possible. Together, we must act swiftly and decisively to prevent further suffering and loss of life in Sudan.

"We stress the need to increase life-saving food aid and offer cash and vouchers in areas where markets are working. Alarmingly, while food is available in some local markets, many Sudanese cannot afford to purchase it, and humanitarian aid trucks face access constraints preventing them from reaching communities in need. Reports of starvation are already emerging, with food security watchdogs warning the risk of famine is imminent."

"We also call on donors and international aid agencies to provide accessible, flexible, and long-term funding to civil society organisations, and we welcome commitments made by the US, Netherlands, and others to support local frontline responders."

CAFOD has been working in Sudan since the 1970s supporting livelihood opportunities, particularly for smallholder farmers and women. CAFOD is on the ground in Sudan and neighbouring countries, working tirelessly alongside local partners to address urgent humanitarian needs. Further information about CAFOD's work in Sudan and its Sudan Crisis Appeal: https://cafod.org.uk/news/emergencies-news/sudan-crisis