Wed Sep 25 07:58:49 UTC 2024: ## Global Leaders Urged to Act as Sudan Crisis Worsens

**GENEVA, 24 September 2024** – As world leaders gather in New York for the UN General Assembly, a dire humanitarian crisis in Sudan continues to unfold, with escalating violence forcing millions to flee their homes and face starvation. The World Food Programme (WFP) has issued a stark warning, urging international leaders to prioritize the situation and take decisive action.

According to the WFP, approximately 800,000 Sudanese refugees have crossed into neighboring Chad, seeking refuge from the brutal conflict raging in their country since April 2023. Desperate refugees report fleeing areas on the brink of famine, where crops have been destroyed by floods and ongoing fighting makes farming impossible.

“We are doing everything we can, but we cannot stop widespread starvation and hunger-related deaths without the support and attention of the international community,” said WFP Communications Officer Leni Kinzli. “World leaders need to give this humanitarian catastrophe the attention it requires – attention that needs to be translated into concerted diplomatic efforts at the highest levels to push for a humanitarian ceasefire and ultimately, an end to the conflict.”

Despite facing significant challenges, the WFP has managed to deliver 2,800 tons of food and nutritional supplies to the Darfur region in Sudan since the border crossing reopened last month. This aid, however, only reaches a quarter of a million people, including 100,000 who are at risk of famine. The war has plunged over 36 million people in Sudan and the surrounding region into hunger.

Even in Chad, which is not directly involved in the conflict, the influx of refugees has put a tremendous strain on resources. “Despite receiving food assistance, many are struggling to get by, eating once a day if they are lucky,” said Ms. Kinzli. She shared the harrowing story of a teenage girl who lost her parents and is caring for her younger siblings, often having to offer them water instead of food.

With the situation deteriorating rapidly, the WFP is urging global leaders to act swiftly and decisively to provide humanitarian aid, push for a ceasefire, and ultimately resolve the conflict in Sudan. The fate of millions hangs in the balance.

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