WFP returns to Khartoum office as Sudan’s hunger crisis worsens
April 9, 2026 (KHARTOUM) – The World Food Programme (WFP) announced on Thursday the return of its Sudan country office to Khartoum, marking a significant step in the United Nations’ efforts to re-establish a permanent presence in the capital.
WFP Deputy Executive Director Carl Skau made the announcement following a meeting with Sudanese Prime Minister Kamil Idris. The move comes three years after the agency’s previous premises were destroyed at the onset of the 2023 conflict.
Prime Minister Idris affirmed the government’s commitment to removing all obstacles and enhancing joint cooperation with the WFP. He stated this would enable the agency to carry out its humanitarian duties and provide assistance throughout Sudan.
The Prime Minister met with Skau and the new WFP Country Director, Abdallah Al Wardat, accompanied by a delegation. The meeting was attended by the Undersecretary of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, Ambassador Muawiya Osman Khalid.
Skau noted that conditions in the capital have shifted significantly in recent months. He observed increased activity in the city and noted that the airport is now operational, allowing more people to return and begin rebuilding.
The agency’s return follows the resumption of the WFP-managed United Nations Humanitarian Air Service (UNHAS) flights to the capital. UNHAS currently operates three flights a week to Khartoum to facilitate humanitarian movement.
Despite the return to the capital, the WFP warned that conflict continues across large parts of the country. Approximately 19 million people are currently facing acute food insecurity, maintaining Sudan’s status as the world’s largest hunger crisis.
The WFP reached 12 million people with aid last year, but officials warned that food stocks are depleting rapidly. Current supplies are expected to run out within weeks unless new funding is secured.
The agency stated it requires more than $600 million to sustain its life-saving operations over the next six months. Funding is critical to maintaining fragile gains made in pushing back famine in several locations.
Skau emphasized that while the agency is ready to expand its reach to mothers and children, the lack of resources remains a primary obstacle. He urged international partners to provide the necessary support to prevent the crisis from deepening.