UN Launches $6 Billion Sudan Appeal as Famine Takes Hold
February 17, 2025
Geneva, Switzerland – The United Nations has launched a $6 billion appeal for Sudan, warning that the country is facing a severe famine that could affect up to 25 million people.
The appeal comes as the UN estimates that the number of people facing severe food insecurity in Sudan has risen to 10 million, with an additional 15 million at risk of slipping into famine by the end of the year.
“The situation in Sudan is extremely alarming,” said Mark Lowcock, the UN’s Under-Secretary-General for Humanitarian Affairs. “We are facing a full-blown famine unless urgent action is taken.”
The famine is being caused by a combination of factors, including conflict, drought, and economic crisis. The country has been plagued by violence for years, with rebel groups fighting the government in several parts of the country. The conflict has displaced millions of people and disrupted food production.
Sudan is also experiencing a severe drought, which has affected crops and livestock. The drought has been exacerbated by climate change, which is making extreme weather events more frequent and intense.
The economic crisis in Sudan has also contributed to the famine. The country’s currency has collapsed, making it difficult for people to afford food and other basic necessities.
The UN’s $6 billion appeal will be used to provide food, water, shelter, and other essential services to the people of Sudan. The appeal will also fund programs to support livelihoods and strengthen resilience to future shocks.
“We need to act now to avert a catastrophe,” said Lowcock. “The people of Sudan need our help. We cannot let them down.”
The UN is calling on the international community to provide urgent funding for the Sudan appeal. The UN has also urged the government of Sudan to take steps to end the conflict and improve the humanitarian situation in the country.
UN launches $6 billion Sudan appeal, as famine takes hold
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