Up to 300,000 Sudanese flee Al-Jazirah State fighting

December 21, 2023 (PORT SUDAN) - Up to 300,000 people have fled Sudan’s second largest city, Wad Madani in Al-Jazirah state, in a new wave of large-scale displacement after fighting spread to the area several days ago, estimates the International Organization for Migration’s (IOM) Displacement Tracking Matrix (DTM).

More than half a million men, women, and children have taken refuge in Al Jazirah state since the start of the crisis in April. Thousands are again on the move, many in panic, fleeing fighting between the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) and Rapid Support Forces (RSF) that broke out in the outskirts of Wad Madani on 15 December.

“This is a human tragedy of immense proportions, deepening the country’s already dire humanitarian crisis,” said IOM Director General Amy Pope. “The intensifying conflict and growing displacement underscore the urgency of a peaceful resolution, the need for a ceasefire and a robust response to avert a wider catastrophe.”

Conflict-displaced people have sought refuge in neighbouring states, many crossing to South Sudan through the Renk border crossing point. Given the scarcity of available transport options, many people have reportedly fled on foot and are currently sheltering in open areas, improvised shelters, schools, and within the host community.

IOM said they deliver essential life-saving aid to nearly 660,000 people in Sudan and neighbouring countries.

Located 140 kilometres southeast of the conflict-torn capital Khartoum, Wad Madani sits at the heart of Al Jazirah state, known as Sudan’s agricultural breadbasket.

These latest movements will push Sudan’s total displaced population beyond 7.1 million, the world’s largest displacement crisis. More than 1.5 million people have fled to neighbouring countries, a staggering number in a country reeling from conflict, food insecurity, and economic collapse.

All humanitarian field missions within and from Al Jazirah state, a vital humanitarian hub for humanitarian operations in Sudan, have been suspended, jeopardizing the already fragile delivery of critical aid to over 270,000 people in need within Wad Madani and the displaced populations fleeing the ongoing violence, according to the Sudan Humanitarian Response Plan.

Sudan is facing one of the largest humanitarian crises in the world, with nearly 25 million people requiring humanitarian assistance and protection. Access to basic necessities such as food and health care has been severely disrupted.

“The world cannot turn a blind eye to this unfolding humanitarian catastrophe,” said IOM’s Ms. Pope. “We need urgent action to support the people of Sudan who are facing displacement, food insecurity, and a lack of access to essential services.”

In a press briefing on Thursday, Stéphane Dujarric, UN Spokesperson, announced that Ramtane Lamamra, the Secretary-General’s envoy, will embark on a mission to the region very soon in the New Year to engage with national and regional leaders.

He added that Lamamra will provide a comprehensive report to the Secretary-General and the Security Council upon his return.

(ST)