AUTHOR : LLOYD MAHACHI
A deadly cholera outbreak in Sudan has killed over 430 people and infected 14,000 in just one month.
The country’s health ministry is working to stop the spread, but the ongoing civil war is making it very difficult. The conflict, which began in April 2023, has ravaged Sudan, leaving millions in desperate need of aid.
Sudan has been embroiled in a vicious struggle for power between the army and a powerful paramilitary group, the Rapid Support Forces (RSF). This has led to one of the world’s worst humanitarian crises, with over 9 million people forced to flee their homes. The UN has described the situation as catastrophic, with warnings of widespread famine and possible genocide against non Arab communities in the western region of Darfur.
Heavy rainfall, floods and crowded displacement camps have created ideal conditions for cholera to spread. Medical charity Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF) reports being obstructed by warring parties, hindering aid delivery. “The humanitarian response remains far below what is needed,” said MSF. The organization has recorded 114 maternal deaths in South Darfur alone, with thousands of children facing starvation.
The lack of basic items like soap, clean delivery mats and sterilized instruments has led to mothers and newborns contracting sepsis. “This is a crisis unlike any other I have seen in my career,” said Dr. Gillian Burkhardt, MSF sexual and reproductive health manager, who is based in South Darfur. The situation in South Darfur is a snapshot of what is likely unfolding at dreadful proportions across war torn and isolated areas of Sudan.
The World Health Organization (WHO) warns that cholera is a highly contagious disease that can cause diarrhea, dehydration and death. However, rapid treatment can prevent fatalities. Health Minister Haitham Mohammed Ibrahim declared a cholera outbreak in mid August and efforts are underway to combat the spread.
The international community is calling for urgent action to protect civilians and scale up aid. The US has pledged $242 million in assistance and an initial vaccination campaign has successfully protected over 50,000 people from cholera. However, much more needs to be done to address the scale of the crisis.
As the situation continues to deteriorate, the people of Sudan urgently need help. The international community must act swiftly to prevent catastrophic loss of life and provide vital support to those affected by the conflict and cholera outbreak.
EDITED BY : JOSEPHINE MAHACHI