Khartoum: Armed men are sexually assaulting children in Sudan, including infants as young as one year old, according to a new UNICEF report. Gender-based violence service providers in Sudan have recorded 221 rape cases against children since the beginning of 2024, said the report.

According to Anadolu Agency, UNICEF Executive Director Catherine Russell expressed deep concern, stating, "Children as young as one being raped by armed men should shock anyone to their core and compel immediate action." She emphasized the grave risk faced by millions of children in Sudan, where sexual violence is being used as a tactic of war, potentially constituting a war crime.

The report highlights that the documented figures represent only a fraction of the actual cases, as many survivors and their families are reluctant or unable to report due to stigma, fear of retribution, and lack of access to support. Russell called for immediate action from conflict parties and their influencers to end these violations, noting the immeasurable and enduring impact on children.

UNICEF has reiterated its urgent call to halt the use of gender-based violence, particularly sexual violence, as a war tactic. The organization warns that time is running out to prevent the crisis from worsening and leaving a lasting negative legacy on Sudanese children.

Since mid-April 2023, Sudan has been engulfed in a conflict between the Sudanese army and the Rapid Support Forces, resulting in over 20,000 deaths and 14 million displacements, as reported by the UN and local authorities. However, research from US universities suggests the death toll may be as high as 130,000.