Famine Crisis in North Darfur Worsens Amidst Ongoing Conflict

Famine conditions in Sudan's North Darfur region are expected to persist due to ongoing conflict, according to a global food security authority. The IPC report indicates severe hunger, particularly in Zamzam camp, with potential famine conditions in Al Fasher and beyond. The conflict has caused massive displacement and restricted humanitarian access.

Famine conditions have spread in Sudan's North Darfur region and are likely to continue through October due to ongoing conflict, a global authority on food security warned Thursday.

A report by the Integrated Food Security Phase Classification (IPC) revealed that North Darfur, particularly the Zamzam camp, is experiencing “the worst form of hunger” known as IPC Phase 5.

The IPC, comprising over a dozen UN agencies, aid groups, and governments, uses this classification as a global reference for severe food and nutrition crises.

IPC Phase 5 occurs where at least one in five people severely lack food, facing starvation and critical levels of malnutrition and mortality.

Sudan's conflict between the military and the Rapid Support Forces has exacerbated the situation, leading to the world's largest displacement crisis with over 10 million people fleeing their homes since April 2023.

In Zamzam camp, where displaced persons have sought refuge, two out of three criteria for classifying famine have been surpassed. The report warns these conditions could persist beyond October if the conflict continues, potentially affecting other camps in the Al Fasher area.