The United Nations has suspended food aid deliveries to a major refugee camp in Sudan due to security concerns, leaving thousands at risk of starvation. The decision, announced on February 26, 2025, comes as conflict in the region continues to disrupt humanitarian efforts.
“This is a life-threatening situation,” a UN official stated. The suspension affects at least 300,000 displaced people who rely on food assistance.
Fighting between rival factions has made it too dangerous for aid workers to operate. Armed groups have attacked supply convoys, looted warehouses, and blocked distribution routes.
The World Food Programme (WFP) has warned that food stocks in the camp are nearly depleted. Without urgent intervention, malnutrition rates are expected to rise sharply.
“Children and the elderly are the most vulnerable,” a humanitarian worker noted. Many already suffer from severe malnutrition due to prolonged shortages.
Medical facilities in the camp are struggling to provide care. Hospitals lack basic supplies, and many doctors have fled due to ongoing violence.
Sudan has faced ongoing conflict since April 2023, when a power struggle between military factions escalated into full-scale war. The fighting has displaced over 8 million people, creating one of the world’s worst humanitarian crises.
The UN has called for immediate access to deliver aid safely. Attempts to negotiate ceasefires for humanitarian operations have repeatedly failed.
“We need guarantees that our convoys will not be attacked,” a WFP spokesperson said. Aid agencies have reported dozens of incidents where workers have been targeted.
The situation has worsened due to economic collapse and rising food prices. Many families can no longer afford even basic supplies, increasing dependence on humanitarian aid.
International organizations have urged governments to pressure Sudanese leaders into allowing safe access for aid deliveries. Diplomatic efforts are ongoing but have made little progress.
“The world cannot ignore this crisis,” a UN representative stated. More than half of Sudan’s population—roughly 25 million people—need humanitarian assistance.
Funding shortages have further strained relief efforts. The UN appealed for $2.6 billion in aid for Sudan in 2024 but received less than 40% of the required amount.
Smuggling networks have exploited the crisis, selling food at inflated prices. Many refugees are forced to trade personal belongings for small amounts of food.
The UN has warned that famine could take hold if aid deliveries do not resume. Immediate action is needed to prevent mass starvation and further suffering.
Efforts to reopen supply routes continue, but the timeline remains uncertain. Humanitarian agencies stress that without intervention, thousands of lives will be lost.
