A desperate situation is unfolding in the Sudanese city of el-Fasher, where hundreds of thousands of residents are facing starvation due to a prolonged siege by paramilitary fighters from the Rapid Support Forces (RSF). The World Food Programme (WFP) has warned that families trapped within the city are struggling to survive, with severe food shortages driving up prices and people resorting to eating animal fodder and food waste.
The RSF’s battle for control of el-Fasher has intensified in recent months, despite a UN-backed ceasefire attempt that was rejected by the paramilitaries. The UN’s children’s agency, Unicef, has reported widespread malnutrition among children across the country, with 38% of those under five years old suffering from acute malnutrition.
The WFP has expressed concern over the situation, stating that without immediate access to food and aid, lives will be lost. The organization is ready to deliver food assistance but needs clearance from the Sudanese government and support from the RSF to proceed.
As the conflict continues, over one million people have fled el-Fasher since the conflict began, including those from nearby camps. The situation is dire, with UN officials warning of a “looming catastrophe” unless urgent action is taken.
Source: https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/c776njyl74po