Deadly Landslides, Floods Hamper Aid Efforts in Sudan

War-torn Sudan continues to face a “horrific humanitarian situation” as UN teams scramble to assist communities affected by the devastating landslide that struck Tarseen village in South Darfur over the weekend, UN spokesperson Stéphane Dujarric said on Thursday.

The death toll has not yet been verified, as ongoing downpours and rugged terrain are making it extremely difficult to reach the affected communities, according to the UN migration agency, IOM.

To date, an estimated 150 people have been displaced from Tarseen and neighbouring villages, with families now sheltering in nearby communities.

The UN humanitarian agency OCHA and partners have activated a rapid response plan. On Thursday, teams comprising nearly a dozen local and international NGOs and UN agencies reached the site, travelling part of the way by donkey due to the difficult terrain. Their mission focused on confirming the number of people affected and assessing and addressing urgent needs, OCHA said.

Teams delivered essential supplies for up to 750 people, including medical kits, nutrition support, food rations, non-food items, and other materials. Mobile health clinics and emergency medical teams were deployed to provide immediate care.

“The assessment’s findings will guide the scale-up of assistance, with UN agencies preparing to send more supplies to meet additional needs,” Mr. Dujarric said.

Meanwhile, OCHA warned that conditions in El Fasher, North Darfur, are worsening amid escalating violence and flooding. Heavy artillery fire has reportedly killed dozens of civilians in recent days.

Humanitarian access continues to be limited, and women and girls face grave protection risks, including sexual violence.

Heavy rains and flooding displaced 350 people in Korma Town on Monday, destroying latrines at the displacement site. Families have sought shelter with host communities.

Flooding in the Zamzam and Abu Shouk camps for displaced people near El Fasher affected 4,300 residents, destroyed 900 tents, and damaged 2,300 houses, according to UN partners.

“These incidents further deepen the horrific situation in a place already affected by famine and ongoing conflict,” the UN spokesperson said.

Cholera continues to surge, with nearly 8,000 cases reported in North Darfur and over 3,800 in South Darfur since May. Severe malnutrition, which has doubled in North Darfur over the past year, leaves children particularly vulnerable.

Sudan has been embroiled in war between rival militaries since April 2023.

“We and our partners are supporting the outbreak response by providing clean water, health services, and conducting cholera vaccination campaigns, despite serious logistical challenges,” Mr. Dujarric added.