Sudan faces increased hunger as cereal production plummets
April 16, 2024 (ROME) – A new report by the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) paints a grim picture of Sudan’s food security situation. Cereal production has dropped by over 40% due to the ongoing conflict, and this decline threatens to push millions more into hunger.
Rein Paulsen, Director of the FAO Office of Emergencies and Resilience, is currently on a field mission in Sudan to assess the situation. He warns of a critical need for urgent and large-scale agricultural support ahead of the June planting season.
“The impact of clashes on food production is undeniable,” stated Paulsen. “Cereal production in 2023 has fallen dramatically compared to previous years. This necessitates immediate and appropriate interventions.”
The report reveals a significant decline in key staples like sorghum, millet, and wheat production. Compared to the previous year, production dropped by a staggering 46%. This decline puts nearly 18 million Sudanese at risk of acute food insecurity, with almost 5 million facing emergency levels. Areas most affected by the conflict, like Darfur, Kordofan, and Khartoum, are experiencing the brunt of the crisis.
Focusing on immediate needs, FAO is working to provide crucial support to farmers. This includes distributing seeds and equipment for staple crop cultivation, as well as emergency veterinary services to keep livestock healthy. Animal health is critical, as livestock contributes over 60% of the agricultural sector’s value.
“Timely interventions are essential,” stressed Paulsen. “Funding is urgently needed to provide farmers with enough seeds for the upcoming planting season. Ideally, resources should be available two to three months in advance.”
FAO’s emergency plan for Sudan in 2024 requires $104 million but is currently less than 10% funded. This funding gap poses a serious threat to the organization’s ability to provide crucial support.
“Displaced people often leave their homes due to lost livestock or destroyed crops,” explained Paulsen. “Therefore, our ability to rapidly assist vulnerable farmers is paramount.”
Despite the challenges, FAO’s previous efforts show promise. In 2023, the organization successfully delivered seeds to one million farming households, enabling them to plant during the critical season.
FAO emphasizes the need for a comprehensive response that supports not only immediate food production but also fosters sustainable livelihoods. This includes promoting veterinary care, vaccinations, and long-term solutions to pave the way for recovery.
The situation in Sudan is critical, and urgent action is needed to prevent further deterioration. By providing immediate support and investing in long-term solutions, the international community can help mitigate the hunger crisis and lay the foundation for a more food-secure future for Sudan.