Millions Suffer in Sudan While the World Looks Away

Sudan, October 17, 2024: The war in Sudan, ignited by a power struggle between the Sudanese army and the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF), has led to a severe humanitarian crisis, resulting in approximately 9,000 deaths and displacing over 5.6 million people. Despite these staggering figures, the global media largely overlooks the ongoing atrocities, leaving millions in desperate need of aid. 

Since the conflict erupted on April 15, 2023, basic services have collapsed and horrific accusations have surfaced, including airstrikes on civilian areas, genocide and ethnic cleansing, particularly targeting the non-Arab Masalit community.

As the fighting continues, the humanitarian situation in Sudan has deteriorated drastically. Most shops have been looted or destroyed, leading to shortages of essential goods. Between mid-May and mid-September 2024, more than 1,200 children under five died in White Nile State due to a measles outbreak and severe malnutrition. With over 3 million children displaced, Sudan now faces the highest number of displaced children in the world and 19 million children are out of school.

Pope Francis has expressed his deep concern for the ongoing conflict, urging an immediate cessation of hostilities and calling for peaceful dialogue between the warring parties. He emphasizes that the ongoing violence exhausts the people, urging political leaders to prioritize peace to avert further destruction and suffering.

Courtesy: Vatican News