Sudanese Refugees Face Dire Conditions in Libya and Beyond
As the conflict in Sudan continues to displace millions, the plight of Sudanese refugees has become increasingly dire. Over two million people have fled their homes since the outbreak of war in April 2023, with many seeking refuge in neighboring countries such as Libya, Chad, and Uganda. The International Organization for Migration reports that these refugees are facing severe health challenges, malnutrition, and a lack of basic necessities.
Umm Mohammed, a refugee in Libya, shared her harrowing experience, stating, "After the war broke out, we went to Egypt, but we couldn’t stay there, so we decided to go to Libya. All the refugees here are sick and have tuberculosis. We can’t afford food and we need medicine." This sentiment is echoed by many who have embarked on perilous journeys in search of safety and stability.
Health Crisis Among Refugees
In Libya, Dr. Adla Tawfiq, who runs a shelter for around 3,000 Sudanese refugees, highlighted the alarming health conditions prevalent among the displaced. Common ailments include viral hepatitis and anemia, with many refugees suffering from mental health issues. Tragically, security reports indicate that approximately a thousand refugees die each month while attempting to traverse dangerous routes, with many more going missing in the desert.
The situation is equally grim in Chad, where about 67,000 Sudanese refugees are struggling with deteriorating health conditions. Human rights advocate Jamal Abdullah Khamis reported high rates of malnutrition among children and the elderly, compounded by a lack of qualified medical personnel and insufficient food supplies. He emphasized the urgent need for improved medical services and access to clean water.
Urgent Call for Humanitarian Aid
In Uganda, the refugee community is grappling with chronic diseases such as cholera and malaria due to poor sanitation and inadequate healthcare facilities. Saleh Idris Adam, head of the Sudanese refugee community in Uganda, noted that the number of refugees has surpassed 8,000, with many suffering from preventable diseases due to a lack of resources. He called on humanitarian organizations and the international community to increase support urgently, stating, "Our situation as refugees is tragic. We appreciate the role played by some international and local organizations, but the aid is still insufficient."
The ongoing crisis faced by Sudanese refugees highlights the urgent need for comprehensive humanitarian assistance and a coordinated international response to alleviate their suffering.
