Clementine Nkweta-Salami, the UN Humanitarian Coordinator, warned that escalating violence in Sudan’s South Kordofan and Blue Nile states may lead to a catastrophic humanitarian crisis. The ongoing conflict has already inflicted heavy civilian casualties and disrupted access to vital aid. She urged all parties to de-escalate tensions and protect civilians, stressing the urgent need for humanitarian assistance.
The UN Humanitarian Coordinator for Sudan, Clementine Nkweta-Salami, has issued a grave warning regarding the escalating violence in South Kordofan and Blue Nile states. In her recent statement, she highlighted the alarming situation in the capital of South Kordofan, Kadugli, where recent hostilities have resulted in the deaths of at least 80 civilians, along with numerous injuries.
Nkweta-Salami condemned the abhorrent practices of using women and children as human shields, obstructing humanitarian aid, and detaining civilians, including minors. The humanitarian crisis is critical in Blue Nile, where the risk of violence and mass mobilization poses a threat to stability.
She further indicated that worsening insecurity may plunge both states into a deeper crisis. Civilians have lacked access to essential services and life-saving assistance due to severe shortages of medical supplies and ongoing conflict.
Nkweta-Salami emphasized the dire consequences of food insecurity impacting parts of South Kordofan, where families are surviving on limited food and rising malnutrition rates. If hostilities persist, she warned that many more individuals would be deprived of vital assistance, leading to further human suffering and loss of life.
Since April 2023, the Sudanese army and the Rapid Support Forces have been engaged in deadly conflicts over control of the country. Nkweta-Salami has called upon all conflict parties to de-escalate tensions, protect civilians and infrastructure, and ensure humanitarian access to those in urgent need.
The current situation in Sudan’s South Kordofan and Blue Nile states highlights a humanitarian crisis marked by escalating violence and severe lack of aid. The UN emphasizes the necessity for immediate action to protect civilians and facilitate humanitarian access to avert further suffering and loss of life. Prompt intervention is critical to prevent a deepening crisis and to ensure that essential programs can reach those most affected.
Original Source: news.un.org
