The cessation of U.S. humanitarian aid due to an executive order has closed nearly 80% of emergency food kitchens in Sudan, leaving two million people vulnerable to starvation. While there is confusion regarding exemptions for food aid, the impact of the funding cuts is profound, further complicated by ongoing conflict and displacement. The worsening humanitarian crisis requires immediate attention and sustained support from international organizations.
The cessation of U.S. humanitarian support has led to the closure of nearly 80% of emergency food kitchens established for individuals affected by the civil conflict in Sudan. President Donald Trump’s executive order, which halted U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) contributions for 90 days, has resulted in over 1,100 kitchen closures. Approximately two million people are now struggling for survival as these vital resources disappear.
Since the outbreak of conflict in April 2023 between the army and the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces, tens of thousands have been killed, and millions displaced. The emergency kitchens, managed by grassroots organizations, provided essential aid to those in dire need. Duaa Tariq, an organizer, reported that “people are screaming from hunger in the streets.”
While the State Department issued an exemption for emergency food assistance, there exists substantial confusion regarding its implications, particularly concerning cash assistance for communal kitchens. USAID had previously funded 70-80% of these operations, and the lack of clear processing channels leaves many in uncertainty. The diminished support from the United States is perceived as a significant setback amidst a growing hunger crisis in Sudan.
The formerly community-supported kitchens evolved into critical aid points, receiving international funding amidst challenges in conflict zones. Andrea Tracy, a former USAID official, described the cuts as a “huge setback” for these vital networks, which relied heavily on both international and local support. The Mutual Aid Sudan Coalition, established for private donations, aims to bridge the funding gap left by USAID’s reductions.
The U.S. aid review process is purportedly geared toward enhancing national security and prosperity, yet has inadvertently led to exacerbated humanitarian needs in Sudan. The World Food Programme (WFP) has obtained waivers for ongoing aid grants but lacks clarity on future funding. In 2024, the U.S. was the largest donor to Sudan, making this aid suspension especially impactful.
The effects of this policy shift extend beyond Sudan’s borders, with millions of displaced individuals seeking refuge in neighboring countries. Rania Dagesh from WFP observed that the influx of over two million refugees strained already limited resources, creating dire shortages of food and essential services in host communities.
Refugees, predominantly women and children, face worsening conditions. Many report being reduced to a single meal a day, and malnourished children are increasingly visible. The ongoing conflict, which has persisted for nearly two years, complicates the possibility of returning home and restoring livelihoods, thus fueling further displacement.
Humanitarian organizations are currently under severe strain due to funding shortages. The UNHCR emphasized its inability to meet basic needs due to a significant funding shortfall. Despite limited resources, many refugees are attempting to seek asylum in third countries, putting themselves at risk during perilous journeys. The humanitarian plight in Sudan remains urgent, compounded by the closure of emergency kitchens and the pressing need for sustained international aid.
The freeze on U.S. aid has resulted in a dramatic decline in food assistance in Sudan, leading to the closure of emergency kitchens and exacerbating the hunger crisis. As millions face starvation, the lack of clarity regarding future funding and support remains a concern. The humanitarian impact extends beyond Sudan as neighboring countries also grapple with the influx of refugees, highlighting the urgent need for effective and continuous international assistance.
Original Source: www.bbc.com
