United Nations Expresses Grave Concern Over Rapid Spread of Cholera Across Sudan, Particularly in Darfur Region

New York, [Date] – The United Nations today expressed deep concern over the continued rapid spread of cholera in various parts of Sudan, particularly in the Darfur region, noting that 40 cholera-related deaths were recorded last week alone.

Key Highlights from the UN Briefing:

• Casualties & Cases: 40 deaths reported recently, with over 2,300 patients treated in health facilities managed by the Ministry of Health in Tawila, which hosts hundreds of thousands displaced by violence in El Fasher and surrounding areas.

• Funding Shortfall: UN Emergency Relief Coordinator Martin Griffiths allocated $5 million last month from the Central Emergency Response Fund (CERF) to support cholera response efforts, but $50 million more is urgently needed to sustain operations through 2025.

• Access Barriers: Ongoing fighting, insecurity, and bureaucratic obstacles continue to hinder humanitarian access to famine-affected areas and other critical zones in El Fasher, North Darfur.

• Supply Route Disruptions: In Kordofan, clashes along key supply routes have severely disrupted the delivery of vital goods, worsening economic conditions, displacement, and the humanitarian crisis.

Statement by UN Spokesperson Stéphane Dujarric:
"All parties to the conflict must comply with their obligations under international humanitarian law, including ensuring unhindered humanitarian access and protecting civilians from harm. The combination of cholera, displacement, and food insecurity has created a devastating cycle of suffering."

Call to Action:

• Immediate funding to scale up cholera treatment and prevention.

• Safe humanitarian corridors to reach affected populations.

• Ceasefire adherence to protect civilians and aid delivery.

Context:
The outbreak exacerbates Sudan’s existing humanitarian emergency, where conflict since April 2023 has displaced millions and collapsed health systems.