Translation. Region: Russian Federation –
Source: United Nations – United Nations –
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February 5, 2026 Peace and security
Acute malnutrition among children in parts of North Darfur and Kordofan, Sudan, has reached catastrophic levels. Amid ongoing conflict, mass displacement, and restrictions on humanitarian aid, the country is rapidly approaching a state of mass famine.
According to the Integrated Food Security Phase Classification (IPC), acute malnutrition thresholds were exceeded in two districts of North Darfur – Um Baru and Kernoy. This occurred following the fall of the regional capital, El Fasher, in October 2025 and the mass exodus of the population.
Assessments conducted in December found acute malnutrition rates among children in Um Baru at 52.9 percent and approximately 34 percent in Kernoy. According to the IPC, famine has not yet occurred, but conditions are rapidly deteriorating and urgent action is needed.
Increased risk of mortality
"These alarming figures indicate an elevated risk of mortality," the experts said, adding that many other areas of the country, affected by conflict or inaccessible to humanitarian organizations, could face equally catastrophic conditions.
Um Baru and Kernoy are located in remote areas of North Darfur, near key displacement routes toward the border with Chad. Both areas have received large numbers of civilians fleeing the fighting in and around El Fasher.
Consequences of the conflict
The war in Sudan, which began in April 2023 between the previously allied Sudanese Armed Forces and the Rapid Intervention Forces, has devastated food systems across the country, causing massive displacement and cyclical disruptions to health, water, and nutrition services.
In 2026, Sudan is expected to experience approximately 4.2 million cases of acute malnutrition, including more than 800,000 cases of severe malnutrition, a sharp increase from 2025.
Please note: This information is raw content obtained directly from the source. It represents an accurate account of the source's assertions and does not necessarily reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.