UN Warns of Growing Hunger Crisis in Sudan

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The United Nations has issued a dire warning about the escalating hunger crisis in Sudan, describing it as the world's most severe humanitarian emergency. The ongoing civil war, which began in April 2023 between the Sudanese Armed Forces and the Rapid Support Forces (RSF), has devastated the nation, leading to widespread famine, displacement, and suffering.​ 

Scope of the Crisis

As of early 2025, nearly half of Sudan's 51 million population faces acute food insecurity. Famine conditions have been officially declared in multiple areas, including the Zamzam, Abu Shouk, and Al Salam camps in North Darfur, as well as parts of the Nuba Mountains. An additional 17 areas are at risk of famine. Approximately 25.6 million people are experiencing crisis levels of hunger, with over 750,000 facing catastrophic conditions. Children are particularly vulnerable, with an estimated 3.6 million suffering from acute malnutrition 

Causes and Compounding Factors

The conflict has severely disrupted agricultural production, with cereal yields in Darfur and Kordofan falling to 80% below average in 2023. This has led to significant food price increases, making basic sustenance unaffordable for many. Both warring factions have been accused of obstructing humanitarian aid, looting food supplies, and destroying crops. The RSF, in particular, has been implicated in burning fields and attacking aid convoys, actions that have been described as deliberate strategies to starve civilian populations.