End attacks on civilians, aid workers in Sudan, says UN
July 25, 2023 (PORT SUDAN) – The United Nations humanitarian coordinator for Sudan, Clementine Nkweta-Salami has called for end to attacks on civilians aid workers in Sudan, three months after fighting broke out in the country.
The UN official, in a statement issued extended to Sudan Tribune, said the conflict in Sudan has turned “a dire humanitarian situation into a full-blown catastrophe”.
“It is a devastating situation, with the surging violations increasing the suffering of civilians,” she said.
Thousands of people have been killed and injured while over 3.3 million people have fled their homes in search of safer areas, both inside and outside Sudan.
Many more remain without the most basic services – water, health care and food.
The humanitarian community, according to the UN humanitarian coordinator, remains steadfast in its commitment to support the people of Sudan, making tremendous and brave efforts to provide assistance amid very difficult circumstances.
“Yet relief workers are not spared from the horrendous acts of violence and abuse. Humanitarians, including health workers, should never be a target, and it is shocking to receive reports of attacks against them,” she stressed.
Since the conflict between rival military factions in Sudan started on April 15, at least 18 aid workers have reportedly been killed and many more injured, while more than two dozen have been detained and some remain unaccounted for.
Also, humanitarian facilities have been attacked, at least 50 humanitarian warehouses were looted, 82 offices ransacked and more than 200 vehicles stolen.
The UN humanitarian coordinator expressed concerns over the looting of a warehouse in Al Obeid in June, which left over 4.4 million people without food.
Since Sudan’s conflict erupted, more than 50 attacks on health care have been verified resulting in 10 deaths. There were 32 attacks reported on health facilities.
“I strongly condemn all of these attacks: They must stop so that the humanitarian community can continue to deliver essential aid and stop the further deterioration of the humanitarian situation,” stressed Nkweta-Salami.
She urged all the parties to the conflict to adhere to international humanitarian and international human rights laws, including the protection of all civilians and civilian infrastructure, as well as the unhindered and safe access for humanitarian personnel and supplies across the country.
(ST)