Famine spreads to more towns in Sudan’s Darfur region, hunger experts warn as war rages on
Sudan’s Descent into Famine: A Crisis Deepens
The humanitarian crisis in Sudan continues to escalate, with famine conditions now confirmed in multiple areas and the risk of widespread starvation looming. As of today, February 5, 2026, the situation is particularly dire in Darfur and Kordofan regions, fueled by ongoing conflict between the Sudanese military and the Rapid Support Forces (RSF).
Famine Confirmed in Multiple Locations
Famine has been officially declared in Al Fasher, Kadugli, Umm Baru, and Kernoi. The Integrated Food Security Phase Classification (IPC) report highlights that in Umm Baru, over half (53%) of children between six months and five years old are suffering from acute malnutrition, while in Kernoi, that number is 32%. These alarming rates indicate a heightened risk of mortality. The fall of El Fasher to the RSF in October 2025 exacerbated the crisis, triggering displacement and straining resources in neighboring communities.
Prior to these recent confirmations, famine conditions were already present in five other areas in North Darfur and Sudan’s Nuba Mountains region in 2024, bringing the total number of famine-stricken areas to nine.
The Human Cost of Conflict
The conflict, erupting in April 2023 from a power struggle, has created what the United Nations describes as the world’s largest humanitarian crisis. Over 40,000 people are estimated to have been killed, though aid agencies believe the actual number is significantly higher. More than 14 million people have been displaced from their homes.
Recent attacks further illustrate the dangers faced by civilians. On February 5, 2026, a strike by the RSF on a military hospital in Kouik, South Kordofan, resulted in 22 deaths, including medical personnel. Similar attacks have rendered several hospitals in South Kordofan inoperable, according to the Sudan Doctors’ Network.
International Response and Aid Efforts
recognising the severity of the situation, international efforts are underway to mobilize humanitarian aid. A new Sudan Humanitarian Fund has been launched with $700 million in contributions from the United Arab Emirates ($500 million) and the United States ($200 million). Saudi Arabia and other nations have pledged further support, though specific amounts remain undisclosed.
Aid distribution is ongoing, but access remains a significant challenge due to the ongoing conflict and disrupted supply lines. The IPC stresses that an immediate and sustained ceasefire is crucial to prevent further suffering.
Defining Famine: A Critical Threshold
The IPC utilizes specific criteria to determine famine conditions. These include a mortality rate of at least two people, or four children under five, per 10,000 people per day; at least one in five households facing severe food insecurity; and at least 30% of children under five suffering from acute malnutrition (based on weight-to-height) or 15% based on upper-arm circumference.
Recent History of Famine Declarations
Famine declarations are rare events. The IPC most recently confirmed famine in northern Gaza in 2025, as well as in Somalia (2011) and South Sudan (2017 and 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the main cause of the famine in Sudan? The primary driver of the famine is the ongoing conflict between the Sudanese military and the Rapid Support Forces, which has disrupted food production, supply chains, and access to humanitarian aid.
Which areas are most affected? Currently, famine conditions are confirmed in Al Fasher, Kadugli, Umm Baru, and Kernoi. Twenty additional areas across greater Darfur are also at risk.
What is being done to help? International organizations are providing humanitarian aid, and a new Sudan Humanitarian Fund has been established. However, a sustained ceasefire is considered essential to effectively address the crisis.
How is famine defined? Famine is declared when specific thresholds related to mortality rates, food insecurity, and malnutrition are met, as defined by the Integrated Food Security Phase Classification (IPC).
Did you know? Sudan’s crisis is considered the world’s largest hunger crisis, impacting millions of people and requiring urgent international attention.
Pro Tip: Stay informed about the situation in Sudan by following updates from the United Nations, UNICEF, and the World Food Programme.
To learn more about the ongoing humanitarian crisis and how you can help, please visit the World Food Programme’s Sudan page.