UN Official Warns of Escalating Violence in Sudan’s South Kordofan and Blue Nile States

Clementine Nkweta-Salami, the UN Humanitarian Coordinator, warns of escalating violence in South Kordofan and Blue Nile states, resulting in civilian casualties and obstructed aid. The ongoing conflict threatens lives as food insecurity and humanitarian needs intensify. She urges for an end to hostilities and protection of civilians.

In Sudan, the UN Humanitarian Coordinator, Clementine Nkweta-Salami, has issued a warning regarding the alarming escalation of violence in the South Kordofan and Blue Nile states. She reported that hostilities in Kadugli, the capital of South Kordofan, have led to the deaths of at least 80 civilians and left numerous others injured. Ms. Nkweta-Salami condemned the reported utilization of women and children as human shields and the obstruction of humanitarian aid along with the detention of civilians, including minors.

Humanitarian conditions in Blue Nile remain precarious, with violence and mass mobilization contributing to potential further conflict. The situation is dire, as civilians continue to face severe limitations in accessing essential medical supplies and humanitarian assistance due to ongoing violence and the prevailing lack of security. \n
The top aid official highlighted that food insecurity is exacerbating conditions in South Kordofan, where families are struggling with critically low food supplies, leading to rising malnutrition rates. The security situation, if not addressed, risks plunging both states into a deeper humanitarian crisis.

Ms. Nkweta-Salami cautioned that the continuation of fighting would further deprive countless individuals of vital aid, worsening human suffering and threatening more lives. The Sudanese army and the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) have been engaged in violent clashes for control of Sudan since April 2023. She urged all conflicting parties to de-escalate tensions, protect civilians and infrastructure, and ensure that humanitarian workers can safely reach those in need.

The situation in South Kordofan and Blue Nile states is critical, with rising violence leading to civilian casualties and obstructing access to humanitarian aid. The UN’s call for immediate de-escalation and protection of civilians is crucial to prevent further deterioration of humanitarian conditions.

Original Source: news.un.org