The UN Humanitarian Coordinator reports escalating violence in South Kordofan and Blue Nile, with at least 80 civilian deaths in Kadugli. Critical humanitarian access is hindered, and families face severe food insecurity. Urgent calls for de-escalation and protection of civilians have been made to avert a deeper crisis.
The violent situation in South Kordofan and Blue Nile states of Sudan is deteriorating, as highlighted in a statement by the UN Humanitarian Coordinator, Clementine Nkweta-Salami.
Nkweta-Salami reported that the recent violence in Kadugli, the capital of South Kordofan, has resulted in the deaths of at least 80 civilians and numerous injuries. She condemned the tactic of using women and children as human shields and expressed concern over the obstruction of humanitarian aid and the detention of civilians.
In Blue Nile, critical humanitarian needs persist amid the growing threat of violence and allegations of mass mobilization for further conflict. According to Nkweta-Salami, the ongoing insecurity jeopardizes access to essential services and life-saving assistance, with many civilians facing a severe shortage of medical supplies.
The aid official warned that the worsening conditions and food insecurity in South Kordofan are alarming, with families subsisting on dangerously limited food supplies, leading to rising malnutrition rates. Without intervention, the humanitarian crisis is expected to deepen.
Nkweta-Salami cautioned that continued fighting will exacerbate human suffering, further impede access to vital aid, and increase the loss of lives. She urged all parties involved in the conflict to reduce tensions, safeguard civilians and infrastructure, and grant humanitarians safe access to those in need.
In summary, the escalating violence in South Kordofan and Blue Nile states poses severe threats to civilian safety and humanitarian access. With critical needs on the rise and food insecurity affecting families, immediate action is necessary to mitigate further suffering. The UN Humanitarian Coordinator has called for conflict parties to de-escalate hostilities and protect vulnerable populations.
Original Source: news.un.org
