A Catastrophic Food Shortage Looms as Fighting in Sudan Escalates

Mercy Corps warns that ongoing fighting in Sudan will trigger a catastrophic food crisis in the months ahead. As the country heads into the typical lean season period (June to September), farmers should be preparing for the planting season, but it has become nearly impossible to access the right seeds and agricultural inputs due to a breakdown in critical supply chains, insecurity, and displacement.  

Since the crisis began on April 15, more than 1.65 million people have been displaced, including more than 1.2 million within the country and more than 425,000 in neighboring countries. Humanitarian needs are projected to grow exponentially among populations that were already severely food insecure and had limited ability to cope before the crisis began.

Mercy Corps Director of Programs for Sudan, Robert Vokes, says:

"Nearly two months into the crisis in Sudan, the escalation of violence in the capital, Khartoum, and other regions like Darfur show no sign of resolution or hope for an end, adding further misery for millions of people already struggling to put food on the table.

"Many farmers may miss this crucial planting season, particularly in regions considered the country's breadbasket, due to a breakdown in the supply chain, food and seed shortages, insecurity, and displacement. It's absolutely crucial that we get the seeds to the farmers and on the ground. If we don't get seeds to farmers now, we are approaching a catastrophic food crisis in the months ahead.

"Displacement levels are alarming and continue to drive humanitarian needs to unprecedented levels. The forthcoming rainy season presents a significant potential threat for disease outbreaks among people in areas where displaced people are seeking refuge. Despite efforts to provide aid, humanitarian access remains hampered and will be further compromised as the rainy season progresses, exacerbating the situation.

"The bleak humanitarian situation in Sudan requires immediate action and support from the international community to meet the rising needs. We are calling for every effort to be made to minimize a humanitarian catastrophe and protect the innocent men, women, and children most at risk."