Sudan Keeps Adre Crossing Open for Humanitarian Aid Amid Famine Crisis

Sudan’s military government will keep the Adre border crossing with Chad open for three more months to facilitate humanitarian aid to the heavily affected Darfur region. This decision follows consultations with UN agencies and aid groups and aims to alleviate the growing famine crisis, especially affecting the Zamzam displacement camp. U.N. officials report successful delivery of significant aid since the crossing’s reopening in August, but underline that broader access is essential for comprehensive humanitarian support.

On Wednesday, Sudan’s military-led government confirmed that the critical Adre border crossing with Chad will remain open for an additional three months to facilitate the flow of essential humanitarian aid into the strife-torn western Darfur region. This decision, following discussions with United Nations agencies and various aid organizations, is crucial for combating the escalating famine crisis, particularly in the Zamzam displacement camp near El Fasher. U.N. spokesperson Stéphane Dujarric commended this extension, highlighting that it allows humanitarian partners to continue delivering aid, which has already benefited nearly 1.4 million people since the crossing reopened in August. Moreover, there are plans to deliver an additional 30,000 metric tons of supplies into Darfur from Chad.

The ongoing conflict in Sudan, which began in mid-April 2023 due to tensions between military factions, has had devastating effects, particularly in Darfur. The fighting has resulted in over 24,000 fatalities and has created the world’s largest displacement crisis, with an estimated 14 million individuals forced to flee. The Adre crossing was previously closed but was reopened to address the catastrophic humanitarian situation that includes confirmed famine in certain regions, necessitating international efforts to facilitate aid delivery. The Sudanese government’s decision to keep this border crossing operational is therefore a vital step in mitigating the humanitarian crisis.

In conclusion, the extension of the Adre border crossing’s operational status reflects the Sudanese government’s recognition of the urgent need for humanitarian assistance in Darfur. While this development is a positive step, aid organizations stress the necessity of maintaining and increasing access across all conflict zones to adequately respond to the burgeoning humanitarian needs in the region and to avert a worsening famine crisis.

Original Source: www.independent.co.uk