WHO Chief Warns of Increasing Malnutrition Crisis in Sudan

Geneva: World Health Organization (WHO) Director-General Tedros Ghebreyesus has issued a warning about the rising severe malnutrition rates in Sudan, projecting that approximately 4.2 million people could be affected by 2026. This number includes over 800,000 cases of severe acute malnutrition, marking a 14 percent increase compared to the previous year. According to Kuwait News Agency, Ghebreyesus highlighted the worsening humanitarian situation at a press conference in Geneva, attributing it to limited access to aid which threatens millions of lives. He pointed to ongoing attacks on healthcare facilities as a factor worsening the crisis. Ghebreyesus referenced the latest International Food Security Phase Classification (IPC) report, noting that two new areas in North Darfur have exceeded thresholds for acute malnutrition. This is one of three critical metrics used to determine famine, with famine conditions having been confirmed in two other cities in November of the previous year. Furthermore, Ghebreyes us disclosed that WHO has confirmed approximately 205 attacks on healthcare facilities, resulting in 1,924 deaths and 529 injuries. He emphasized the urgent need to protect medical facilities and healthcare workers. The WHO chief called for intensified humanitarian efforts to deliver food and medical aid to Sudan's most vulnerable populations. He warned that without immediate intervention, the situation could escalate into a more severe humanitarian catastrophe.