More at risk as conflict spreads to parts of Al-Jazirah State: IRC

December 16, 2023 (KHARTOUM) – An international humanitarian agency has warned that more lives remain at risk as fighting continues in Sudan’s Al-Jazirah State, which was previously a safe haven for the displaced people from Khartoum.

The situation, the International Rescue Committee (IRC) said, has forced it as well as other humanitarian workers to relocate their staff from the area.

“This disruption threatens to deprive millions in need of crucial humanitarian aid and will lead to new waves of displacement,” IRC said in a statement.

The conflict, involving the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) and the Sudan Armed Forces (SAF), has resulted in the capture of Abu Guta village and clashes in areas including Abu Haraz and Al Sharfa.

The conflict reportedly features the use of heavy artillery, airstrikes, and disruptions to civilian movement, including the closure of bridges in and around Wad Madani.

“The IRC reiterates its call for an end to hostilities and the lifting of all barriers preventing populations from accessing humanitarian aid,” it noted.

Since April 15, over 500,000 Sudanese had sought refuge in Wad Madani after fleeing Khartoum, yet access to essential non-governmental organization services for vulnerable populations has been severely disrupted.

There are also concerns that basic necessities like food, healthcare, and shelter are becoming increasingly inaccessible, exacerbating the already dire humanitarian situation.

“It is essential civilians have unfettered access to aid and that aid agencies are able to reach populations in need,” said Mohammed Mahdi, Deputy Director Programs for IRC in Sudan.

He added, “The international community must unite to address these challenges, promoting peace and enabling humanitarian organizations to fulfil their vital role in providing support to those affected by the conflict. While the situation remains fluid, our foremost concern is the safety and security of our staff and the communities we serve. The IRC’s country team is diligently assessing the situation’s impact on ongoing programming in the region over the forthcoming days”.

Meanwhile, the IRC said it has adapted its programs and scaled up its response to address increased humanitarian needs in Sudan by refocusing on needs-based emergency responses to IDPs through integrated multi sectoral economic recovery and development; health and nutrition; and water, sanitation and hygiene.

The aid agency also provides integrated protection services, including comprehensive services for women, girls and children, as well as empowerment services, including for gender-based violence survivors in Blue Nile and Gedaref.

(ST)