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The United Nations Humanitarian Coordinator in Sudan, Clementine Nkweta-Salami, has sounded the alarm over the deteriorating security situation in South Kordofan and Blue Nile states, warning that both regions are teetering on the edge of a humanitarian catastrophe.

In a statement released on Thursday, Nkweta-Salami highlighted the dire impact of the escalating violence, particularly in Kadugli, South Kordofan, where at least 80 civilians have reportedly been killed, with many others injured in recent hostilities.

She condemned the disturbing reports of children and women being used as human shields, the obstruction of humanitarian aid, and the unlawful detention of civilians, including minors. “Civilians have, for far too long, been unable to access lifesaving assistance and basic services due to a severe lack of medical supplies, restricted humanitarian access, and ongoing conflict,” she stated.

The humanitarian crisis is further compounded by widespread food insecurity, with families in parts of South Kordofan surviving on dangerously limited food supplies. Malnutrition rates are rising sharply, posing a grave threat to the lives of vulnerable populations, especially children.

“This is a critical moment,” Nkweta-Salami stressed, adding that if the violence continues unchecked, more people will be cut off from vital humanitarian assistance, leading to deeper human suffering and more preventable deaths.

Since April 2023, Sudan has been gripped by fierce fighting between the Sudanese army and its military rivals, the Rapid Support Forces (RSF), in a power struggle that has devastated communities and displaced millions.

Nkweta-Salami called on all parties involved in the conflict to immediately de-escalate tensions, respect international humanitarian laws, and prioritize the protection of civilians and critical infrastructure. She emphasized that humanitarian organizations must be granted unrestricted access to deliver essential aid to those in desperate need.

The situation remains fluid, with growing concerns that continued hostilities could trigger a broader humanitarian disaster in Sudan, already facing immense challenges from years of conflict and political instability.