WFP Scales Up Operations to Reach Millions in Sudan
November 22, 2024
Khartoum, Sudan – The United Nations World Food Programme (WFP) is scaling up its operations in Sudan to reach millions of people facing severe food insecurity. The country is grappling with a complex humanitarian crisis, fueled by conflict, climate change, and economic instability.
Rising Food Insecurity
In recent months, food insecurity has escalated in Sudan, with an estimated 11.7 million people expected to face crisis or emergency levels of hunger by the end of the year. This represents a significant increase from 9.9 million people in March 2023.
The crisis is particularly acute in conflict-affected areas, such as Darfur and the Two Areas. Prolonged droughts and floods have also devastated crops and disrupted livelihoods, leaving communities vulnerable to food shortages.
WFP’s Response
WFP is responding to the crisis by scaling up its food assistance and nutrition programs. The organization aims to reach 9.8 million people with life-saving food and cash transfers in 2024.
“The situation in Sudan is alarming,” said Eddie Rowe, WFP’s Country Director in Sudan. “We are seeing a sharp rise in food insecurity, particularly among vulnerable groups like women and children. We must act urgently to prevent a humanitarian catastrophe.”
WFP is providing a range of assistance, including:
- Emergency food distributions: WFP is distributing food rations to families in conflict-affected areas and other food insecure locations.
- Cash transfers: WFP is providing cash transfers to vulnerable households, allowing them to purchase food and other essential items.
- Nutrition programs: WFP is targeting malnourished children and pregnant or breastfeeding women with specialized nutrition interventions, such as supplementary feeding and therapeutic treatment.
Challenges and Funding Needs
WFP’s operations in Sudan face significant challenges, including insecurity, logistical constraints, and limited funding. The organization urgently requires US$804 million to fully meet the needs of those facing food insecurity.
“We cannot afford to wait,” said Rowe. “The lives of millions of people depend on our ability to provide timely and effective assistance. We appeal to donors to step up and provide the necessary funding to save lives.”
Call for Action
WFP calls on the international community to:
- Increase funding for humanitarian assistance in Sudan.
- Support efforts to address the root causes of food insecurity, such as conflict and climate change.
- Promote access to essential services, such as health care and education, for vulnerable populations.
By scaling up its operations and working with partners, WFP aims to mitigate the suffering of millions of people in Sudan and help them build a brighter future.
WFP scales up operations to reach millions in Sudan
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