In Sudan, sick and starving children face severe malnutrition

UNICEF says more than half of children in parts of North Darfur are acutely malnourished, and UN-backed IPC data describes catastrophic malnutrition in three localities.

Heavy fighting between the Sudanese Armed Forces and the Rapid Support Forces has continued, displacing millions and disrupting services across the country. UNICEF reported that in parts of North Darfur more than half of children are acutely malnourished after new IPC data flagged catastrophic rates in Um Baru, Kernoi and At Tine. The World Health Organization said attacks on health facilities, damage to equipment and disease outbreaks have weakened care for displaced and vulnerable people. Key facts: - UNICEF reports more than half of children in parts of North Darfur are acutely malnourished. - IPC data labels malnutrition rates in Um Baru, Kernoi and At Tine as "catastrophic." - WHO has verified 205 attacks on health care since April 2023, with reported deaths and injuries among patients and health workers. - Nearly 13.6 million people have fled their homes, including about 9.1 million internally displaced. Summary: Children face overlapping risks where severe malnutrition, disease outbreaks and a weakened health system coincide. UN agencies have reported the situation and called for humanitarian access and protection of health services. Undetermined at this time.