UN: Sharp deterioration in health and food conditions in North Darfur

July 29, 2025 (PEN) The United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) expressed grave concern over the deteriorating health and food conditions in Sudan, warning of escalating crises in conflict areas, particularly in North Darfur state.

According to the office, more than 1,500 confirmed and suspected cholera cases have been recorded in Tawila locality since June, with more than 500 people currently receiving treatment. The office noted that local authorities were forced to take emergency measures, including closing markets and banning public gatherings, in an effort to contain the outbreak.

Last week, the United Nations confirmed that humanitarian organizations need urgent funding of $120 million to expand humanitarian support in Tawila over the next three months, warning that a continued funding shortfall will hinder efforts to contain the outbreak and ensure the provision of essential services.

In a related development, UN reports have warned of a sharp deterioration in food security across the country, with families in the Abu Shouk camp for internally displaced persons (IDPs) suffering from severe food and medicine shortages, resulting in four hunger-related deaths over the past week, according to local sources.

UN assessments showed that El Fasher recorded the highest prices for basic commodities in May, with the cost of the local food basket more than six times the national average. The city also witnessed shocking price increases, including a 960% increase in the price of sugar, a 160% increase in the price of sorghum, and a 150% increase in the price of dishwashing liquid in just one month.

According to an earlier Integrated Food Security Phase Classification (IPC) alert, some areas of North Darfur and the Eastern Nuba Mountains are facing famine-like conditions, while other areas are at risk, especially with the onset of the lean season, which lasts from July to October.

Despite this escalation in crises, the United Nations confirmed that it continues to provide humanitarian assistance, noting that last week it distributed shelter materials, hygiene kits, and cooking utensils to approximately 2,000 newly displaced families in North Darfur. However, approximately 60% of displaced families still lack adequate shelter support, according to the Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs.