Over 25 million people face hunger crisis in Sudan

In Sudan, a significant humanitarian crisis has unfolded, exacerbated by a civil war that erupted in 2023. More than 25 million people are currently grappling with food insecurity, while approximately 10 million have been displaced from their homes due to ongoing violence. The conflict has primarily stemmed from the power struggle between General Abdel Fattah al-Burhan of the Sudanese Armed Forces and General Mohamed Hamdan Dagalo, also known as Hemeti, of the Rapid Support Forces. These issues have led to catastrophic levels of hunger affecting over 600,000 individuals. Local communities in Sudan have begun to take initiative in providing aid, forming mutual aid networks to serve the needs of those affected, effectively sidestepping the traditional reliance on foreign aid and international organizations. The deprivation faced by civilians is partly a result of the Sudanese Armed Forces' blockade of aid deliveries to regions controlled by the Rapid Support Forces. A report in 2022 indicated that 40 to 60 percent of all humanitarian aid was being diverted by various parties, including the SAF, which has utilized the Humanitarian Aid Commission to confiscate shipments intended for those in need. The situation in Sudan mirrors similar crises faced in past conflicts around the world, such as in Colombia and Syria, where local networks of support emerged amidst chaos. These community-driven groups have operated on a volunteer basis, fostering trust and engagement among citizens, although they still face allegations of bias by conflicting parties. Preexisting support for mutual aid practices in Sudan may contribute significantly to their effectiveness in alleviating despair amid the turmoil. Despite receiving limited funding from international donors, these mutual aid networks emphasize local knowledge and ownership of the aid distribution process, which contrasts sharply with the bureaucratic structures of large international organizations like the U.N. To further strengthen and sustain these grassroots efforts, coalitions such as the Mutual Aid Sudan Coalition have been established. Launched in September 2024 during the Clinton Global Initiative, this coalition aims to connect international funding directly with local initiatives and enhance the capacity of these groups to respond to the dire needs of the populace effectively.