MSF Responds to Escalating Crisis in North Darfur, Sudan
In the midst of escalating fighting in North Darfur, Sudan, Doctors Without Borders (MSF) has been on the front lines, treating over 100 war-wounded patients at South Hospital in El Fasher over the past two weeks. Among the patients are 11 children, many with gunshot wounds, highlighting the devastating impact of the conflict on innocent civilians.
Simultaneously, MSF is ramping up its response to a major malnutrition crisis in Zamzam camp, where the situation is reaching critical levels. A rapid nutrition and mortality assessment conducted earlier this year revealed alarming figures, with over 30% of children screened suffering from acute malnutrition and 8% classified as severely malnourished. Pregnant and breastfeeding women also showed high rates of malnutrition, indicating a widespread crisis in the camp.
Despite sounding the alarm in February and calling for urgent support, MSF remains one of the few international aid agencies on the ground, providing vital assistance to those in need. Claire Nicolet, head of MSF’s emergency response in Sudan, emphasized the urgent need for international support to prevent further deterioration of the crisis.
With the lean season approaching and the fighting intensifying, the situation in Zamzam camp is dire. MSF has expanded its operations, opening a second health clinic and treating critical cases in a 25-bed field hospital. However, more support is needed to address the growing needs of the population.
As the humanitarian crisis worsens, MSF is calling on the warring parties to ensure the protection of civilians and healthcare facilities, allowing for safe access and delivery of aid. The lives of hundreds of thousands of people hang in the balance, and immediate action is needed to prevent further tragedy in North Darfur.