MSF staff member killed in Sudan’s North Darfur State

May 26, 2024(EL FASHER) – The medical charity, Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF) has announced the death of a staff member killed in El Fasher, North Darfur State.

The off-duty watchman, employed at the MSF pharmacy, was reportedly killed when shelling struck his home near El Fasher’s main market on May 25.

This devastating incident is a stark reminder of the escalating violence that has left many staff mourning the loss of loved ones and homes, the agency said.

Since the conflict began two weeks ago, MSF, in partnership with the Ministry of Health, has reportedly treated over 930 injured individuals at South Hospital.

The death toll in El Fasher, according to the medical charity, now exceeds 123.

MSF urgently urged all warring parties to prioritize the protection of civilians, who, like their fallen colleague, are bearing the brunt of this devastating conflict.

“Hundreds of thousands of innocent civilians in North Darfur are once again trapped in the crossfire,” said the Resident and Humanitarian Coordinator in Sudan, Clementine Nkweta-Salami.

“This relentless violence must end. Each life lost is a heart-wrenching reminder of the devastating human cost of this conflict,” she added.

The official expressed concerns that people in Al Fasher and surrounding areas face a dire humanitarian situation, with conflict affecting their lives daily.

The number of casualties, she observed, is rising by the day.

“The relentless violence must come to an end. Each innocent life claimed stands as a harrowing testament to the sheer brutality of war”, stressed Nkweta-Salami.

She added, “The brave humanitarians supporting people in need must be protected. International humanitarian law must be respected.”

The official urged all parties involved in the conflict to stop the fighting, respect human rights and allow the safe passage of civilians and humanitarian aid.

(ST)