The Sudanese government has strongly rejected a recent report backed by the United Nations that declared famine conditions in five areas of the country, as conflict between the Sudanese army and the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) continues to ravage the nation. The Integrated Food Security Phase Classification (IPC) report, which is used by UN agencies, revealed that famine conditions were affecting 638,000 people, with another 8.1 million on the brink of starvation.
In a statement issued on Sunday, Sudan’s Foreign Ministry “categorically rejected” the IPC’s description of the situation, calling the report “speculative” and accusing the organization of procedural and transparency failings. The government claimed that the IPC’s assessment was based on outdated field data and that the final version was published without consulting the government’s technical team. The IPC, however, maintains that its process is “evidence-based” and ensures a “rigorous, neutral analysis.”
The declaration of famine is a reflection of the dire consequences of the ongoing war, which began in April 2023. The conflict has displaced millions, leaving vast areas of Sudan struggling with food insecurity. In August, the IPC already declared a famine in the Zamzam camp for displaced persons in Sudan’s western Darfur region, where the RSF has imposed a siege. Despite these warnings, the Sudanese government insists that the rumors of famine are “pure fabrication,” with the government’s humanitarian commissioner, Salwa Adam Benya, accusing aid agencies of using food assistance as a “pretext” to advance political agendas.
International organizations, including the International Rescue Committee, have condemned the government’s actions, accusing it of obstructing humanitarian aid efforts, especially in areas controlled by the RSF. The government has been accused of creating bureaucratic hurdles for aid groups, blocking foreign aid workers’ visas, and hindering the delivery of crucial assistance. Both sides of the conflict have been accused of using “starvation tactics” to pressure the opposing forces, further exacerbating the crisis.
The United Nations and various humanitarian groups have warned that Sudan is at risk of becoming the world’s largest hunger crisis in recent history. With over 24.6 million people—roughly half the population—facing acute food insecurity, the IPC has stated that a ceasefire is the only solution to prevent the spread of famine. The international community has urged both the army and RSF to immediately allow unhindered aid access to all areas to prevent further loss of life and avert an even larger humanitarian disaster.
In response, the U.S. has pledged an additional $200 million in humanitarian aid for Sudan, with Secretary of State Antony Blinken highlighting the extreme measures people are forced to take in order to survive, including eating grass and peanut shells. As the war drags on, the people of Sudan face a growing crisis, and the international community’s efforts to bring peace and stability to the country remain critical.
