Red Cross urges increased support to avert Sudan’s forgotten crisis

April 8, 2024 (PORT SUDAN) – As Sudan enters its second year of conflict, the International Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement (RCRC) is calling for increased international support to address the devastating consequences of the fighting.

Over 8 million people have been displaced within Sudan, while tens of thousands have been killed or wounded. Essential resources like food, water, and fuel are scarce, and the healthcare system is severely strained.

“This is a forgotten crisis unfolding before our eyes,” said Aida Al-Sayed Abdullah, Secretary-General of the Sudanese Red Crescent Society (SRCS). “The SRCS is on the frontlines, providing critical aid to those affected. We urgently need increased support from the international community to continue our life-saving work.”

The SRCS, with 4,000 volunteers across the country, is providing essential services including, first aid and evacuation of the wounded, distribution of food and essential items, psychological support and reuniting families separated by the conflict.

The broader RCRC Movement, including the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) and the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC), is supporting the SRCS in its efforts.

Funding is critically needed to sustain these efforts. The IFRC launched an emergency appeal for 60 million Swiss Francs to support the SRCS and scale up its response. Additionally, a Regional Population Movement appeal seeks 42 million Swiss Francs to aid neighbouring countries impacted by the refugee crisis.

The Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement also calls on all parties involved in the conflict to respect international humanitarian law and protect civilians. They emphasize the long-term damage caused by attacks on hospitals, schools, and civilians.