United Nations: Rhino – The United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) has warned of the continued deterioration of the humanitarian situation in Gezira State, which is one of 17 areas in Sudan threatened by famine, according to the Integrated Food Security Phase Classification (IFSPC).

The World Food Program (WFP) was able to deliver the first aid shipment in more than a year to Wad Madani, the capital of Gezira State, Deputy Spokesperson Farhan Haq said during a press conference. He confirmed the arrival of 11 trucks loaded with 260 tons of food and food supplies, enough for more than 20,000 people.

The spokesperson revealed that humanitarian partners are planning to conduct a needs assessment in the city, where residents are suffering from severe shortages of food, water and health services, in addition to severe malnutrition.

Farhan emphasized the importance of ensuring immediate access to clean water, as most of the city’s water stations are not functioning, forcing residents to rely on unsafe water sources, increasing health risks.

The UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) emphasized the need for more resources to respond to this crisis and protect civilians amid reports of shootings, restricted movement of residents, and gender-based violence in the area.