Malnutrition kills 12 children in Khartoum as aid groups struggle

December 25, 2024 (KHARTOUM) – At least 12 children have died from malnutrition this month in a Rapid Support Forces (RSF)-controlled area of Sudan’s capital, a local aid group said on Wednesday, highlighting the deepening humanitarian crisis in the war-torn country.

The South Belt Emergency Room reported that over 5,300 children in the area are currently suffering from malnutrition. The area, which includes the neighbourhoods of Al-Ingaz, Al-Azhari, Al-Salama, and Mayo, has been under RSF control since the conflict erupted in April.

“We received reports of 12 child deaths and 5,340 cases of child malnutrition this month alone,” an Emergency Room member told Sudan Tribune, speaking on condition of anonymity.

The worsening situation is attributed to the closure of 55 community kitchens known as “Takayas”, coupled with soaring food prices and dwindling financial resources among residents.

Adding to the challenges, the aid worker said nine health centres in the area are no longer operational and medical supplies are scarce.

The conflict between the RSF and the Sudanese army has ravaged the country, displacing millions and leaving many without access to basic necessities. Aid agencies have repeatedly warned of a looming humanitarian catastrophe, with malnutrition rates reaching alarming levels, particularly among children.