The humanitarian crisis in Sudan worsens as over 25 million face food insecurity and 1.2 million refugees flee to Chad. UN officials warn of escalating tensions and a complex humanitarian situation in Central Africa, with calls for international action and stronger partnerships for stability.

With the civil war in Sudan now in its third year, the humanitarian situation is deteriorating, with over 25 million people experiencing acute food insecurity. As refugees continue to pour into neighbouring Chad, the UN Special Representative for Central Africa, Abdou Abarry, has raised the alarm regarding the escalating crisis.

“The international community’s inaction risks exacerbating the humanitarian situation, particularly as the ongoing conflict in Sudan leads to an increasing number of refugees heading to Chad,” he stated.

It is estimated that approximately 1.2 million Sudanese have sought refuge in the eastern part of Chad, primarily after fleeing the intensifying violence in their homeland. Speaking at the UN Security Council, Abarry noted that under the UN system, Chad is endeavouring to provide additional emergency humanitarian assistance and stabilisation programmes in several locations.

He also cautioned that tensions between the Democratic Republic of Congo and Rwanda pose a significant security threat in Central Africa, which could escalate into a regional crisis. Gilberto da Piedade Veríssimo, President of the Commission of the Economic Community of Central African States (ECCAS), concurred.

“However, in addition to the security crisis, Central Africa is also grappling with a complex humanitarian crisis, which continues to worsen, with around 13 million people having been forcibly displaced,” he remarked. Da Piedade Veríssimo added that Central Africa is one of the regions in the world most affected by humanitarian crises.

The United States informed the Security Council that stronger partnerships would lead to greater peace and stability in the region, while Russia asserted that reforms in the financial sector would redirect funds towards the development of countries’ economies and social systems.