Breaking news: Genocide and famine declared
After months of deliberation, the U.S. Government has formerly declared its belief that the Sudanese Rapid Support Forces (RSF) are committing genocide. The RSF, largely composed of the Janjaweed militias, has a dark history of crimes against humanity, as documented by Human Rights Watch. This declaration underscores the gravity of atrocities being committed in Sudan.
Adding to this tragedy, famine – already devastating displaced peoples in camps in North Darfur – has now spread to additional camps in the region. The hunger crisis continues to spiral, leaving millions without access to adequate food and nutrition. Meanwhile, a cholera outbreak has affected thousands across the country, with 5,000 cases reported in a region of White Nile State, where Caritas partners are working tirelessly to provide aid.
Hunger crisis: The stark reality
The hunger crisis in Sudan is severe, with millions living in phases 3, 4, and 5 of food insecurity, as defined by the World Food Programme (WFP):Â
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Phase 3: Malnutrition begins to take hold. All displaced people in Sudan are experiencing this level at a minimum.Â
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Phase 4: Acute malnutrition, large food consumption gaps, and excess deaths. An estimated 3.6 million people are at this phase.Â
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Phase 5: Famine, characteriszed by starvation, destitution, death, and extremely critical levels of acute malnutrition. At least 755,000 people are facing this catastrophic stage, with families unable to secure even the most basic caloric needs.Â
A nation displaced
Sudan is now home to approximately 11 million internally displaced persons (IDPs), with an additional 2.5 million people seeking refuge in neighbouring countries like Chad. Tragically, over half of these displaced individuals are children under the age of 18. Entire communities have been uprooted, leaving behind homes, livelihoods, and safety in their search for survival.
How your donations are making a difference
Despite immense challenges, Caritas partners are on the ground in North Darfur, Gedaref, and White Nile State, delivering lifesaving support. Their efforts include:
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Protection services for vulnerable individuals.
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Water, sanitation, and health initiatives to combat disease outbreaks.
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Multi-purpose cash assistance to empower displaced families to purchase essentials.
These dedicated teams operate under harrowing conditions – facing military conflict, disease outbreaks, and severe cash shortages at Sudanese banks – to ensure that help reaches those who need it most. Their work is only possible thanks to the generosity of people like you.
What you can do
This crisis demands immediate action. By donating to Caritas Australia, you can help provide food, clean water and essential supplies to families who have lost everything. Every contribution brings hope and relief to those in desperate need.
Together, we can stand in solidarity with the people of Sudan. Let us not turn away from their suffering but instead offer them the support and compassion they so urgently require.
