SUDAN – The United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) has warned of rising levels of hunger, disease, and displacement across Sudan’s war-torn regions, as extreme heat and widespread flooding threaten thousands of lives. Despite these compounding emergencies, only 23% of the 2025 Humanitarian Response Plan has been funded to date.
In its latest update, OCHA said the ongoing siege on El Fasher, the capital of North Darfur, is worsening what it described as a “catastrophic” humanitarian situation. The report highlighted a severe shortage of food and surging prices that have forced the closure of communal kitchens. It added that widespread hunger and malnutrition have already caused numerous deaths and pushed some residents to eat livestock feed known locally as “ambaz.”
“As these crises worsen, the need for international support is growing stronger,” the office said.
In Tawila locality, also in North Darfur, humanitarian organizations have had to expand their cholera response amid a rise in cases. OCHA warned that medical supplies are running out and stressed that clean water and proper sanitation remain urgent needs, with water provision and latrine construction listed among the top priorities.
In Lagawa city, in South Kordofan, displaced populations are suffering from both severe food shortages and repeated armed attacks. According to OCHA, doctors have raised alarm over continued conflict preventing aid delivery, leaving already vulnerable families without food or access to healthcare.
Meanwhile, Sudan has entered the rainy season, bringing additional devastation. Torrential rains and storms are displacing families and destroying homes across several regions. On Monday alone, heavy rainfall in Al-Rahad locality in North Kordofan displaced around 550 people and damaged or destroyed more than 170 homes.
In Kassala State, floods swept through West Airport displacement camp, affecting over 6,000 people. Many tents were submerged, exposing children to hunger, cold, and unsanitary conditions. The Update stated that these displaced families are in urgent need of cash assistance, shelter, and protection.
In Port Sudan, a sudden heatwave has caused widespread distress. Three deaths and 50 cases of heatstroke were reported this week alone amid soaring temperatures and large-scale electricity outages. With temperatures reaching 47C, overcrowded hospitals have appealed for urgent support, including cooling equipment, medical supplies, and additional medical staff.
Reiterating its appeal, OCHA urged international donors to scale up their contributions. The 2025 Humanitarian Response Plan,which aims to assist 21 million of the most vulnerable people across Sudan, has only received 23% of its required $4.2 billion budget so far