Photo credit: news.un.org
Mohamed Refaat, the Chief of Mission for the International Organization for Migration (IOM) in Sudan, spoke to the press following his visit to Khartoum state, an area that has recently returned to the control of the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) after being difficult to access for a long period. This region has experienced significant turmoil since the onset of conflict in April 2023, when fighting erupted between the SAF and the former allied Rapid Support Forces (RSF).
As the violence continues, the civilian population bears the severe consequences. The recent escalation of combat around Khartoum, which was primarily dominated by the RSF, has further exacerbated the humanitarian crisis.
‘Unimaginable’ Destruction
Mr. Refaat expressed his deep shock at the extensive damage he observed throughout the city. He reported, “Electricity stations have been looted; the water pipes have been destroyed. And I’m not talking about some areas. I’m talking about everywhere I went.” This veteran of humanitarian aid, who has seen conflict in Yemen and Libya, emphasized that the level of devastation in Bahri, a district of Khartoum, is beyond comprehension.
He noted, “There has been targeting of not only people’s homes but also administrative centers, and not just military sites. The basic infrastructure needed to sustain life for civilians has been systematically dismantled.” The urgent need for substantial re-investment is crucial for those returning to Khartoum after enduring nearly two years of warfare.
Horrors All Around
During his visit, Mr. Refaat met with Sarah, an elderly mathematics teacher who has been unable to escape the pervasive violence. Her experiences are filled with trauma, having witnessed loss and destruction, while constantly living under the threat of further violence and sexual assault.
He explained, “Sarah’s decision to stay was driven by necessity. As an elderly woman, traveling on foot would have posed great risks, and she lacks the means for transportation.” The funding crisis has led many NGOs to halt their activities or limit their operations, leaving numerous individuals, like Sarah, without any support.
Funding Crisis Widespread
Mr. Refaat highlighted the urgent funding shortages affecting humanitarian efforts. “Funding has dried up, not just from member states, but also from diaspora and charity organizations,” he stated, emphasizing the critical need for more financial support for essential services, including medicine, housing, potable water, education, and healthcare.
The IOM is currently seeking $250 million to aid approximately 1.7 million people in Sudan this year; however, less than 10% of the required funds have been secured.
Source
news.un.org