OCHA warns of escalating violence in Darfur and affirms the continuation of humanitarian work.

23 April 2026 (PEN) The United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) warned of worsening insecurity in the Darfur region of western Sudan, and the resulting heavy civilian casualties, stressing that humanitarian efforts will continue despite the challenges.

The office explained, based on statements from local sources, that more than 10 civilians were killed and others were injured in a drone strike that targeted the town of Umm Dukhun, southwest of Zalingei, on April 21.

He also noted that 115 people were displaced from the village of Damra al-Qubba in North Darfur to al-Fashir last Sunday due to the deteriorating security situation.

In this context, the United Nations and its partners reported that the humanitarian response is continuing, with the World Health Organization making progress in a six-day vaccination campaign, which began on Saturday, targeting 80,000 children in West Darfur with essential childhood vaccines.

OCHA renewed its call for ensuring safe, sustainable and unhindered humanitarian access, providing flexible funding to reach those in need, and supporting the most vulnerable groups.