SUDAN, APRIL 18, 2023 – The continued fighting in Sudan has led to increased fatalities and casualties, despite a temporary ceasefire on Sunday, April 16, 2023. The armed conflict, which is happening in and around residential areas, is worrying as civilians bear the brunt of the violence. CARE is deeply concerned about the safety and well-being of Sudanese communities—especially women and girls in the country. So far, reports indicate that there have been close to 200 deaths and 1800 injuries. CARE condemns the ongoing fighting and is calling for a cessation of hostilities and prioritization of the protection of civilians.
The fighting is exacerbating an already difficult humanitarian situation in Sudan. Currently, over 11 million people can barely meet the minimum food requirements. Close to four million children under the age of five, as well as pregnant and lactating women (PLW), are acutely malnourished. Drought, floods, and disease outbreaks have contributed to the worsening humanitarian situation.
“Sudan is currently facing a humanitarian crisis with more than 15 million people in need of assistance,” said Kate Maina-Vorley, CARE International Regional Director for East, and Central Africa. “We are deeply concerned about the ongoing armed conflict’s impact on the lives of women and girls. Women and girls are disproportionately affected by violence especially when they are forced to flee from their homes and communities. This leaves them vulnerable to further harm. We call on all parties to ensure that all civilians, especially women, and girls, are protected from all forms of violence and exploitation.”
CARE has been working in communities across Sudan since 1979. Between July and December 2022, CARE in Sudan reached 147 000 people with much-needed health services, 15 900 people with sexual reproductive health support, and 465 400 people with water, sanitation, and hygiene services.
While CARE never suspended the delivery of lifesaving water, health and nutrition services in most regions, some other not lifesaving operations are paused. CARE will be opening four offices in six of the states we operate in, to continue lifesaving operations.
CARE calls on all parties to work towards a lasting peace solution in Sudan for future generations. We stand with the Sudanese people, including women and girls, and will continue to advocate for their rights and well-being even after the conflict is resolved.
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About CARE Canada:
Founded in 1945 with the creation of the CARE Package ℠, CARE is a leading humanitarian organization working around the globe to save lives, defeat poverty, and achieve social justice. CARE puts women and girls at the centre of our work because we know we cannot overcome poverty until all people have equal rights and opportunities. CARE develops solutions alongside women and girls to lift themselves, their families, and communities out of poverty and out of crisis. CARE works in over 100 countries around the world.
To learn more about CARE Canada, visit care.ca.