Sudan faces a severe humanitarian crisis, with widespread hunger exacerbated by ongoing civil war and a significant reduction in USAID funding. Local professionals are struggling to provide care and support to those affected, including injured children. The international community is called upon to respond urgently to this evolving disaster as resources and funding dwindle.
In war-torn Sudan, hunger is pervasive, especially among those trapped in conflict zones, with soup kitchens now common in cities like Omdurman. The middle class has eroded significantly, and individuals like Mohammed Hamad, an electrical engineer, can no longer support their families due to the civil war’s impact on the economy. Hamad, who has resorted to relying on charitable aid, expressed his despair about not being able to provide for his wife and four children, particularly when medical issues arise.
Many soup kitchens that emerged to help the needy in urban areas have been primarily funded by the U.S., but about 80% faced closure after the suspension of USAID under President Trump. This aid was crucial not only for food distribution but also for hospitals; one, Al Noa, serving Omdurman, continues to operate despite severe resource shortages and damage from bombardments.
Dr. Jamal Mohammad leads medical efforts at the overwhelmed Al Noa hospital, which relies on volunteer-run soup kitchens for patient meals. Even before the halt in USAID funding, the hospital struggled with dwindling supplies of essential medical items. Dr. Mohammad expressed concerns that the aid suspension will worsen suffering in Sudan, highlighting the country’s status as a neglected conflict zone.
Former U.S. Ambassador Jesseye Lapenn criticized the decision to withdraw aid, noting it undermines U.S. foreign policy and respect for American values. She emphasized that USAID is often misrepresented as charity rather than a strategic investment in global relationships, pointing out that it constitutes about 1% of the federal budget and is affordable.
The withdrawal of U.S. support may drive Sudan to seek assistance from other nations, risking exploitation of its resources. Various countries, including the UAE, Iran, and Russia, are involved in Sudan’s conflicts, aiming to secure mineral wealth and geopolitical footholds. The United Nations urgently appealed for $6 billion to address extreme hunger in Sudan, characterizing it as the worst hunger crisis they have addressed.
Cindy McCain of the U.N. World Food Program stressed the critical need for immediate humanitarian action, warning that vital support is close to collapsing in the face of overwhelming demands from 25 million people in need. The future of aid remains uncertain, but local medical staff, like Dr. Mohammad, are determined to continue their work despite the challenges.
During a visit to the hospital, Dr. Mohammad cared for 10-year-old Akram Atlan, whose leg was injured by shrapnel while playing outside. Dr. Mohammad reflected on the drastic shift in his role, from healing to merely trying to save lives amidst the chaos. He successfully operated on Akram, restoring hope for the boy, who dreams of playing soccer again.
Dr. Mohammad articulated his commitment to his profession, stating, “It’s my oath. That’s it. To save lives.” Despite the immense challenges he faces, he continues to provide care in a war-affected environment, exemplifying dedication and resilience in the face of adversity.
The removal of USAID from Sudan has precipitated a severe humanitarian crisis, impacting vulnerable populations and health services. There is a growing reliance on international aid to alleviate widespread hunger and medical needs, especially amidst escalating violence. Local medical professionals, like Dr. Mohammad, convey profound dedication to their patients, providing essential care despite limited resources. A multifaceted response from the international community is urgently needed to address this escalating catastrophe in Sudan.
Original Source: www.cbsnews.com
