The African Union has warned that Sudan is experiencing the worst humanitarian crisis globally, as the ongoing conflict between the Sudanese army and the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) continues to devastate civilians, particularly children suffering from malnutrition and lack of aid.
Escalating Humanitarian Disaster
During a panel discussion, African Union officials highlighted the catastrophic impact of the war, which has displaced nearly 12 million people. Mohamed Ibn Chambas, head of the AU’s Sudan Committee, stated that the conflict has severely restricted humanitarian access, exacerbating food shortages and worsening hunger across the country.
He further stressed that women and children are facing increasing violence, while the elderly and sick lack access to essential medical care. “This is the worst humanitarian crisis in the world,” Chambas said, expressing deep concern over the ongoing violence and the absence of political solutions. He emphasized that political dialogue, not military action, is the only viable path to ending the war, blaming external interventions for prolonging the conflict.
Children at Risk as Crisis Deepens
Wilson Almeida Adão, a senior AU official for child welfare, reported a 44% increase in malnourished children admitted to hospitals in 2024, with over 431,000 receiving treatment.
Adão also cited alarming reports of “grave violations,” including attacks on schools and hospitals, forced recruitment of child soldiers, and restrictions on humanitarian aid reaching those in need.
Aid Restrictions and Worsening Divisions
While the Sudanese army controls the northern and eastern regions, the RSF holds most of the Darfur region, where the UN has accused them of blocking humanitarian relief efforts.
UN Resident Coordinator in Sudan, Clementine Nkweta-Salami, condemned the RSF for imposing severe restrictions that prevent life-saving aid from reaching vulnerable populations.
Meanwhile, African Union Commissioner for Political Affairs, Peace, and Security, Bankole Adeoye, stated that the AU is actively engaging all Sudanese stakeholders—including civilians and political leaders—in an inclusive dialogue to restore constitutional democracy and end the war.
Roadmap for Post-War Sudan
Amid mounting pressure, Sudan’s Foreign Ministry announced that the government has proposed a “post-war roadmap” focused on reviving the political process, ultimately leading to general elections as part of efforts to restore stability and rebuild the nation.
