UNICEF delivers nutritional aid to North Darfur

February 13, 2024 (EL FASHER/EL DAEIN) – A shipment of vital nutritional supplements arrived in North Darfur on Tuesday via neighbouring Chad, delivered by the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF).

Due to the aid disruptions, international warnings of famine and severe food insecurity in displacement camps have grown louder.

Ahmed Mohamed Al-Douma, acting director general of the Ministry of Health, welcomed the shipment of life-saving therapeutic food treatment, stating it will alleviate the shortage of supplements in nutrition centres for displaced populations.

Abbas Youssif Adam, Humanitarian Aid Commissioner in North Darfur, praised the collaboration between the Ministry, UNICEF, and Roots organizations in finding alternative methods to deliver aid.

The aid delivery through Chad addresses the critical food shortages facing many Darfur cities after the cessation of commercial and humanitarian convoys protected by joint armed movements.

East Darfur faces dialysis crisis

However, a dire situation unfolds in East Darfur at Al Daein Hospital. An emergency room official reported a complete lack of dialysis medicines and equipment, jeopardizing the lives of 25 patients.

This coincides with soaring prices of medical supplies and the spread of malaria, typhoid, and colds among displaced communities.

The official highlighted the dire conditions faced by the 160,000 displaced people in East Darfur, including families unable to meet basic needs and inadequate services in most shelter centres. This further underscores the urgency of humanitarian interventions.

Most families, especially children, the elderly, and pregnant women, struggle to meet basic needs due to limited resources and a lack of services in many shelters.

Last week, the UN appealed for $4.1 billion to meet Sudan’s urgent humanitarian needs.

(ST)