Sudan war leaves millions hungry and displaced as health system nears collapse

UN agencies estimate about 33.7 million people in Sudan will need humanitarian assistance in 2026, while WHO reports more than one third of health facilities are non-functional.

Sudan has experienced nearly three years of fighting that began in April 2023 between the Sudanese Armed Forces and the Rapid Support Forces and has spread beyond Khartoum to regions including Darfur and Kordofan. UN agencies say restricted humanitarian access, ongoing hostilities and shrinking funding have produced one of the largest humanitarian emergencies worldwide. Basic services including health care and food supply have been severely disrupted, leaving many people hungry, displaced or without essential care. Key facts: - UN agencies estimate about 33.7 million people in Sudan will need humanitarian assistance in 2026. - More than 20 million people require health assistance, and 21 million face acute food insecurity. - WHO reports that more than one third of health facilities nationwide are non-functional and has verified 201 attacks on healthcare, resulting in 1,858 deaths and 490 injuries. - An estimated 13.6 million people have been uprooted by the fighting, including about 9.3 million internally displaced and roughly 4.3 million who have left for neighboring countries. Summary: The widespread disruption is affecting health services, nutrition and displacement across much of Sudan. Undetermined at this time.