Famine spreads in Sudan as conflict drives catastrophic hunger
December 24, 2024 (PORT SUDAN)—According to a new report by the Famine Review Committee (FRC), famine is spreading in Sudan. At least five areas are currently experiencing catastrophic conditions, and projections indicate five more will face famine by May 2025.
Twenty months of brutal conflict have plunged Sudan into a deepening humanitarian crisis marked by widespread starvation and a surge in acute malnutrition. The FRC estimates that half of Sudan’s population, a staggering 24.6 million people, are facing high levels of acute food insecurity.
“This marks an unprecedented deepening and widening of the food and nutrition crisis,” the report stated, citing mass displacement, economic collapse, and the breakdown of essential services as key drivers.
Famine, classified as IPC Phase 5, was first detected in August in Zamzam camp, North Darfur. It has since expanded to other areas of North Darfur and the Western Nuba Mountains. The FRC projects famine will engulf further areas in North Darfur, including Um Kadadah, Melit, and El Fasher, by May 2025. An additional 17 areas are at risk of famine.
The report notes a slight improvement in food insecurity compared to the lean season (June-September 2024), attributed to above-average rainfall that supported agricultural activities in some areas. However, ongoing conflict continues to disrupt farming, displace populations, and hinder humanitarian access, leaving millions vulnerable to starvation.
The FRC is an independent committee of international experts specializing in food security, livelihoods, nutrition, and health. Activated by the Integrated Food Security Phase Classification (IPC) Global Support Unit, the FRC provides independent reviews of IPC analysis and builds consensus on famine classifications. The committee plays a crucial role in validating data and ensuring the accuracy of famine projections, especially in complex emergencies like Sudan.
The FRC warns that without immediate and unhindered humanitarian assistance, famine risks spreading further, threatening the lives of millions.
UN agencies call for urgent action
In response to the alarming findings, the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), the World Food Programme (WFP), and UNICEF issued a joint statement urging immediate action to avert a humanitarian catastrophe.
“The FRC’s findings mark an alarming escalation of hunger and malnutrition during what is typically the harvest season,” the agencies said, highlighting the severity of the situation. They stressed that ongoing conflict is preventing harvested food from reaching those in need, with markets disrupted and millions displaced.
“Without immediate, unhindered humanitarian access and urgent international support, famine risks spreading further in 2025, threatening the lives of millions of people, mainly children,” the statement warned.
The UN agencies emphasized that conflict, displacement, and restricted humanitarian access remain the primary drivers of the crisis. Despite some aid deliveries, conditions in famine-stricken areas like Zamzam camp remain critical. Sustained violence and economic hardship have left millions unable to afford basic necessities.