Paloma Martin de Miguel
Africa Operations Manager - ACF-Spain
Declaring famine is a rare and desperate measure, signalling that food insecurity has reached critical levels, where hunger and extreme malnutrition pose an imminent threat to a substantial portion of the population. In Sudan, a nation of around 44 million people with a rich cultural diversity encompassing Arab, African and Nubian influences, this crisis was officially recognised by the UN on 1 August 2024. The declaration primarily affects the Darfur and Kordofan regions, marking an exceptional and alarming event on the global stage. Famine has only been officially declared on four other occasions in recent decades: South Sudan (2017), Somalia (2011), North Korea (1995) and Ethiopia (1984).
Prior to the current crisis, Sudan was already grappling with severe health and nutrition challenges. Years of conflict and underinvestment had weakened the country’s health infrastructure. In many rural and conflict-ridden areas, access to medical services was severely limited, resulting in low vaccination rates and a high prevalence of diseases such as measles and cholera, largely due to poor water and sanitation conditions.
In terms of nutrition, the country had already been facing alarming levels of malnutrition. Around 15% of children under five suffered from acute malnutrition, which significantly affected their physical and cognitive development. These pre-existing conditions left many communities particularly vulnerable to any disruption in food supplies. With the declaration of famine, more than 25 million Sudanese people are estimated to be severely food insecure, with at least 755,000 individuals in conditions of famine. The ongoing conflict has displaced millions, disrupted supply chains and devastated agricultural production. In internally displaced person (IDP) camps, such as Zamzam near El Fasher in Darfur, thousands are trapped without access to adequate food, clean water, or health services.
The combination of an already fragile health system, elevated levels of pre-existing malnutrition and lack of access to essential services has led to a catastrophic situation. International intervention and an urgent humanitarian response are necessary to prevent this crisis from worsening.
The conflict in Sudan, which erupted in April 2023, is the latest chapter in a long history of instability and violence that has plagued the country since its independence in 1956. This new conflict involves the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) and the Rapid Support Forces (RSF). The SAF represents Sudan’s regular army, while the RSF, a paramilitary force originally formed from the Janjaweed militia, has been battling for power and territorial control.
Sudan has endured multiple conflicts since its independence, including two devastating civil wars. The first spanned from 1955 to 1972, and the second from 1983 to 2005, resulting in the eventual independence of South Sudan in 2011. In addition, the Darfur region has been embroiled in severe fighting since 2003, marked by a humanitarian crisis that drew international attention due to the atrocities committed by Janjaweed militias. The current conflict escalated over disagreements about the integration of the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) into the national army and the distribution of resources. This has sparked widespread violence, displacing millions and worsening an already dire humanitarian situation. The collapse of basic supplies and the economy has compounded the food insecurity and famine crisis, placing the population in a state of extreme vulnerability.
Despite the significant challenges, the international community, along with organisations such as ACF-Spain, has made critical humanitarian interventions. One of the key initiatives is the establishment of Emergency Rooms (ERs) in the most affected areas, providing food, medical care and other essential services.
The concept of Emergency Response Rooms in Sudan did not emerge by chance; it is deeply rooted in the country’s rich cultural traditions. In Sudan, hospitality goes beyond social courtesy; it is a core part of the cultural identity, known locally as Al Ihsan. This practice embodies the Sudanese willingness to open their homes and share food with those in need, showcasing a culture of generosity and solidarity that has been passed down through generations.
The Sudanese tradition of hospitality includes acts such as inviting strangers to family meals and offering traditional dishes like such as ful medames (a bean and vegetable dish) and kisra (thin fermented bread). This reflects a deep respect and warmth towards visitors, regardless of their background. These customs not only foster connection and camaraderie but have also been central to community responses in times of crisis. Today’s ERRs are an extension of this cultural practice of caring for others, especially those in the most desperate situations. The tradition of hospitality and community care has been vital in sustaining Sudanese communities during times of great need.
The Jeddah Agreement, signed on 11 May 2023, represented a significant effort to prioritise the protection of civilians and facilitate humanitarian access in Sudan. The agreement, endorsed by key international actors such as the US and Saudi Arabia, stipulates that humanitarian aid should be allowed safe and unimpeded passage across borders and conflict lines to ensure vital supplies can reach populations in need.
Despite these commitments, violations of the agreement have been frequent. Reports indicate that parties to the conflict have blocked critical routes, preventing essential food and medicine from reaching those who need it most. In addition, multiple mediation initiatives and advocacy efforts have been launched to address the crisis. The Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD), led by Kenyan President William Ruto, has tried to mediate the conflict but faces limitations due to the exclusion of key actors such as Chad and Egypt. These countries, affected by the flow of refugees from Sudan, established the Neighbouring Countries Initiative and organised a summit in Cairo to coordinate regional efforts.
Meanwhile, the African Union (AU) has pushed for initiatives focused on protecting civilians and planning for a long-term democratic transition. However, its influence has been limited by the diversity of other efforts at play. The UN Mission in Sudan (UNITAMS) and various international entities have also been involved in mediation, striving to unify the fragmented efforts under an extended mechanism that includes around 25 states and regional organisations. These multiple mediation forums and efforts to unify initiatives have faced obstacles due to the lack of political will among the conflict’s parties and the fragmentation of international actions. The lack of coordination and differing interests of mediators have hindered the effective implementation of the Jeddah Agreement and other peace efforts, leaving the civilian population in an extremely precarious situation.
UN Security Council Resolution 2724 stresses the importance of protecting critical civilian infrastructure, such as farms and markets, which are essential for the survival of the population. In Sudan, numerous devastating attacks have targeted such infrastructure. For example, in the Darfur region, several local markets have been completely destroyed, leaving thousands of people without access to basic food. These attacks have not only eliminated sources of income for many families but have also contributed to food shortages and rising prices, further exacerbating the humanitarian crisis.
Additionally, agricultural facilities, such as crop fields and irrigation systems, have suffered considerable damage. These infrastructures are vital for food production, and their destruction affects not only the immediate availability of food but also the long-term economic resilience of the affected communities.
The international community has called for all parties to the conflict to cease these attacks and adhere to international humanitarian law, which explicitly prohibits targeting civilian infrastructure. The protection of these resources is crucial not only for daily survival but also for the stability and future development of the affected communities.
At the Paris International Humanitarian Conference in April 2024, a pledge of $2 billion was made for Sudan’s humanitarian response, though the actual needs are estimated at $4.1 billion. Organised by France, Germany and the European Union, the conference brought together representatives from 58 countries, donor agencies, UN organisations and other humanitarian entities to address the crisis. The funds are earmarked for several key sectors. In healthcare, the focus includes rebuilding and repairing damaged hospitals, providing essential drugs, training health workers and strengthening mental health services and psychosocial support for victims of gender-based violence and trauma. In nutrition, emergency programmes have been implemented to distribute food and nutritional supplements, particularly for children under five and pregnant or lactating women, alongside the rehabilitation of food storage and distribution facilities. Efforts are also underway to address critical water and sanitation infrastructure needs, benefiting 5.6 million people who require access to safe water supplies and sanitation services. While these efforts reflect a significant commitment, they are still insufficient to meet all the urgent needs in the country.
Cash transfer programmes have proven to be an effective tool for improving food security in times of crisis. In February 2024, over 167,400 people received this form of assistance, enabling them to purchase food and other essential goods. In regions where inflation has driven food prices to unaffordable levels, this assistance has been crucial. Beneficiary families have reported a significant improvement in the quality and diversity of their diets, allowing them to access nutritious food that would otherwise be out of reach. Additionally, a decrease in child malnutrition rates has been observed in areas where these programmes have been implemented, highlighting their positive impact.
The ongoing conflict has worsened the already fragile situation for women, with sexual violence reaching alarming levels. Reports of public rape, often accompanied by ethnic insults, have been particularly widespread in cities like El Geneina. Human Rights Watch has documented these horrific acts, underscoring the severity of the crisis. The situation is made worse by the lack of adequate healthcare and psychological support for survivors. Many medical facilities have been targeted and destroyed, leaving victims without the necessary care to heal both physically and emotionally. The humanitarian response must be comprehensive, prioritising safe access to healthcare, counselling and other vital services for these women.
The declaration of famine in Sudan underscores the gravity of the situation, marking a critical moment for global humanitarian efforts. The crisis has reached unprecedented levels, demanding an immediate and coordinated response from the international community. Sudan, a nation rich in cultural diversity and a long-standing tradition of hospitality, has been a haven for millions of refugees from neighbouring countries such as Eritrea, Chad and the Central African Republic. Today, however, this resilient country is facing the worst food crisis in its history. Decades of conflict, political instability and the recent surge in violence have pushed Sudanese communities to breaking point. The heartbreaking images of displaced families, entire communities with no access to basic food supplies and children suffering from malnutrition paint a stark picture of the urgent need for action. The international community cannot afford to hesitate. We must respond swiftly and effectively, not only by delivering food and medicine but also by providing psychosocial support and rebuilding essential infrastructure.
In this moment of crisis, the African proverb “When two elephants fight, it is the grass that dies” resonates deeply. However, the proverb leaves something unsaid: the grass can grow back stronger. The resilience of the Sudanese people demonstrates this potential for renewal. Despite the immense challenges they face, Sudan has repeatedly shown its ability to overcome hardship and rebuild. This strength serves as an inspiration to the rest of the world. The choices we make now will shape the future of Sudan and impact millions of lives. Our actions must reflect a deep commitment to justice, humanity and compassion. History will judge how we respond to this catastrophe. Only through coordinated global effort and decisive action can we alleviate suffering, restore hope and help Sudan overcome the crisis it faces.