War in Sudan: 1st anniversary of the conflict

April 15 marks the first anniversary of the conflict between the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) and the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) in Sudan. Characterized by massive offensives against the civilian population and infrastructure, this conflict has had devastating consequences: 25 million people need humanitarian aid and protection, more than 10 million are displaced and almost 15,000 people have already died.

The needs are immense in all sectors of humanitarian aid. Individuals experiencing vulnerability and people with disabilities are even more impacted by the crisis - whether people’s disabilities are pre-existing or the result of violence inflicted on civilians. OCHA estimates that $2.7 billion will be needed this year to support the population, who are exposed to danger on a daily basis. Funding is a major issue given the scale of the emergency.

Access to Sudanese territory is still limited for international NGOs, and humanitarian workers must be able to intervene to deliver aid wherever it is needed.

“Since the start of the conflict, Humanity & Inclusion has been providing aid developing services for displaced people in Egypt and Chad,” explains Fanny Mraz, HI’s Emergency Director. “Our teams are working to strengthen local health systems and build the capacity of local NGOs in terms of physical rehabilitation, mental health and access to humanitarian aid for people with disabilities.

“Inside Sudan, we are starting activities in these same areas by providing financial and technical support to local partners. These needs are barely covered, if at all. A year after the start of the conflict, it is still very difficult for us to work. There is a real issue in terms of access to different areas and to funding, without which the protection of civilians and assistance to victims cannot be guaranteed.”

Fanny Mraz is available for interviews regarding HI’s response in Sudan and neighboring countries. For media inquiries, please contact Mira Adam at [email protected].