Statement by the Humanitarian Coordinator a.i. in Sudan, Abdou Dieng (21 April 2023)

(Khartoum, 21 April 2023): Fighting for the last six days has been devastating for Sudanese people.

I am horrified by the toll the clashes are having on civilians. At least 331 people have been killed nationwide, including five aid workers, and nearly 3,200 have been injured.

I am calling on all parties to the conflict to implement humanitarian pauses and cease hostilities to allow civilians, including aid workers, to move to safety, replenish their supplies and access essential items such as food and water.

Access to health facilities is also paramount. Many hospitals have had to close. And in those that are functioning, widespread blackouts and lack of electricity place patients at high risk.
Several hospitals have run out of blood and other essential supplies.

Assaults on hospitals, humanitarian staff and facilities must stop.

As we are ending the holy month of Ramadan and celebrate Eid al-Fitr, a time of peace and reconciliation, I call on all parties to the conflict to immediately end the fighting and work towards a peaceful resolution.

Every year at this time, people come together with their families and loved ones to celebrate Eid. But this year, the people of Sudan are in danger, fleeing their homes for their lives.
Families are being separated. Many will not have access to food, water, essential medicines or other basic services.

I urge all parties to prioritize the safety and well-being of civilians during this important holiday.

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Note to editors:

 In 2023, humanitarian needs across Sudan have reached record levels, with 15.8 million people—about a third of the total population—requiring humanitarian assistance, according to the 2023 Humanitarian Needs Overview (HNO).

For further information, please contact:
Sofie Karlsson OCHA – Head of Communications and Analysis Mobile: +249 (0) 912174456 E-mail: karlsson2@un.org