The U.S. has frozen humanitarian aid to Sudan, leading to the closure of around 80% of emergency food kitchens. This has left two million people without sufficient food aid amidst an ongoing civil conflict. Local organizations struggle to manage the crisis due to funding cuts, increasing desperation and hunger in affected communities.
The U.S. cut in humanitarian aid to Sudan has resulted in approximately 80% of emergency food kitchens closing, according to reports from the BBC. This decision stems from President Trump’s executive order to pause funding from USAID for three months, impacting more than two million people in need of food assistance. Since the civil war ignited in April 2023, the conflict has led to severe famine and mental trauma among the populace.
Emergency kitchens operated by local grassroots networks have faced drastic closures, leaving families without adequate support. Duaa Tariq, an organizer, noted, “People are screaming from hunger in the streets,” reflecting the desperate state of communities. Confusion prevails surrounding the U.S. government’s emergency exemption for food assistance, as existing channels to secure help through USAID have been dismantled.
The significant funding decline from USAID, traditionally providing up to 80% for emergency kitchens, amplifies the global hunger crisis. Food kitchens, supported initially by community donations, became reliant on international aid, which is now in danger of halting completely. Government policy shifts are expected to hinder future funding negotiations for humanitarian assistance in Sudan.
Andrea Tracy, a former USAID official, expressed this situation as a “huge setback,” as the budget cuts complicate resource acquisition for feeding centers. Many volunteers displaying extreme dedication continue their mission but are exhausted and underfunded. Local organizations struggle to sustain operations amid increasing hunger levels.
The World Food Programme has secured waivers for ongoing projects but faces uncertain future funding. The situation worsens as more than two million Sudanese locals become refugees in surrounding nations, stretching already limited resources. Rania Dagesh, WFP’s assistant executive director, highlighted the critical need for assistance in refugee camps, where families suffer severe nutritional scarcity.
In summary, the recent cuts to U.S. humanitarian aid, particularly from USAID, have led to the closure of numerous emergency food kitchens in Sudan, exacerbating the hunger crisis amid ongoing conflict. These closures impact millions of vulnerable individuals, prompting urgent calls for alternative funding solutions. The international community must respond to prevent further deterioration of food security and humanitarian conditions in Sudan and neighboring refugee-hosting countries, as the current policies have already created significant uncertainty regarding future assistance.
Original Source: www.bbc.co.uk
