Relentless violence, worsening famine and the rapid spread of disease are pushing Sudan’s children deeper into crisis, with the death toll rising sharply, United Nations aid agencies have warned.
Humanitarian officials said ongoing conflict has devastated essential infrastructure, including hospitals and clinics, leaving millions without access to basic healthcare. Children are among the most severely affected, facing acute malnutrition, preventable diseases and displacement.
Healthcare under attack
Aid agencies highlighted repeated attacks on healthcare facilities and medical personnel, severely disrupting treatment services. Many hospitals have either shut down or are functioning with minimal staff, limited medicines and scarce equipment.
The lack of safe humanitarian corridors has further hampered relief operations. Aid deliveries remain inconsistent due to insecurity and bureaucratic constraints, preventing life-saving food and medical supplies from reaching vulnerable communities.
Famine and disease spreading
According to UN officials, large parts of Sudan are experiencing severe food shortages, with children suffering from acute malnutrition. Waterborne diseases and outbreaks of preventable illnesses are spreading rapidly in overcrowded displacement camps.
Humanitarian organisations say the combination of hunger, disease and violence has created a “catastrophic” environment for children. Many families have been forced to flee multiple times, losing livelihoods and access to schooling.
Urgent call for access and protection
UN agencies have called for an immediate cessation of hostilities, protection of healthcare facilities and unhindered humanitarian access. They stressed that without sustained international support and safe access routes, the number of preventable child deaths is likely to increase further.
Officials emphasised that children must be protected from violence and guaranteed access to food, clean water and medical care to avert a deeper humanitarian disaster.