Malnutrition kills 12 children in Sudan’s capital

November 28, 2024 (KHARTOUM) – Twelve children have died from malnutrition in Sudan’s capital this month, a local health official said on Thursday, as cases of the disease surge in an area controlled by the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF).

The deaths occurred in the South Belt area of Khartoum, which includes the neighbourhoods of Al-Ingaz, Al-Azhari, Al-Salama, and Mayo. More than 3,500 cases of malnutrition have been reported in the area in November, according to the South Belt Emergency Room.

“The medical office received reports of the deaths of 12 children, while the number of malnutrition cases in the area reached 3,611,” a member of the emergency room, who wished to remain anonymous, told Sudan Tribune.

The official also confirmed an increase in cholera cases in the area, with 80 cases and four deaths reported this month.

The South Belt has been under RSF control since fighting erupted between the paramilitary group and the Sudanese army in mid-April. The conflict has severely disrupted healthcare services and humanitarian aid deliveries.

“A major challenge facing the emergency room is the lack of medical supplies reaching Khartoum,” the official said. “This is exacerbating the poor health situation, in addition to the lack of food and high prices.”

All charitable kitchens in the area have been forced to close due to financial constraints, and more than 80% of health centres are no longer operational.

“Currently, there is no kitchen operating in the South Belt,” the official added. “This has contributed to the widespread prevalence of malnutrition cases.”

Sudan’s health sector has been in decline for years, but the conflict has brought it to the brink of collapse. The World Health Organization estimates that 80% of health facilities in conflict zones are no longer functioning, and there is an acute shortage of medicines and medical supplies.