Sudan Faces Cholera Crisis Amid Ongoing Conflict
Sudan is grappling with a severe cholera outbreak, as Health Minister Dr. Haitham Mohamed Ibrahim reported a staggering 555 deaths and nearly 19,000 infections across 10 states. The escalating health crisis is compounded by the ongoing conflict, which has severely hampered the delivery of medical supplies and services, particularly in areas controlled by the Rapid Support Forces (RSF).
The Minister highlighted that the health sector has suffered losses exceeding $11 billion due to the war, including the destruction of hospitals and the looting of medical equipment. Currently, out of 700 hospitals in Sudan, approximately one-third are non-operational, leaving many citizens without access to critical health services. The situation is dire, with cholera and malaria cases rising as the rainy season exacerbates the spread of diseases.
Challenges in Delivering Medical Aid
Dr. Ibrahim emphasized that the primary challenge lies in ensuring the safety of medical personnel and the secure delivery of supplies in conflict zones. Many areas have become isolated, complicating efforts to provide necessary medical care. The Sudanese government is actively seeking international support to address the $4.7 billion in health and humanitarian needs that remain unmet, as they have only received 25% of the required funding.
Despite these challenges, the government has begun organizing control activities for cholera and malaria, with support from international organizations. Vaccinations are being rolled out in the most affected regions, with over 1.4 million doses expected to arrive soon. The government continues to call for the opening of main transport routes to facilitate the delivery of food and medical supplies, which are critical for the survival of the population.
