Sudan's civilians have suffered through almost seven months of intense conflict and a humanitarian tragedy that only grows bleaker by the day, Resident and Humanitarian Coordinator for Sudan Clementine Nkweta-Salami said in press remarks.
"If we don't act now, Sudan risks becoming a protracted crisis where there is little hope and fewer dreams. We cannot let this happen," she warned, noting that maintaining the attention of the world is a daunting challenge.
"The Statement of Commitments adopted in Jeddah earlier in the week by the parties to the conflict in Sudan marks a moment of truth for the country. We owe it to the people of Sudan to ensure that the promises made by the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) and Rapid Support Forces (RSF) to protect civilians and provide unimpeded humanitarian access are kept," Nkweta-Salami said, adding that these obligations include protecting civilians and civilian infrastructure. She also called for all parties to Sudan's conflict to abide by their obligations under International Human Rights and Humanitarian Law.
"The health sector has been decimated and more than 70 per cent of health facilities in conflict areas are out of service. This is extremely worrying, not least given ongoing disease outbreaks such as cholera, dengue, malaria and measles," she said.
"Donors have been generous; but Sudan's people need sustained support," the UN official stressed.
As the fighting continues to rage, over half of the population 25 million people require assistance and protection. More than 6 million people have fled their homes and are displaced inside Sudan or in neighboring countries.
