El obeid: The World Food Programme (WFP) on Friday highlighted a critical shortfall in humanitarian aid in Sudan's El Obeid, as the city grapples with a sharp increase in displaced individuals seeking refuge from ongoing conflict.

According to Anadolu Agency, WFP Sudan Country Director Abdallah Alwardat informed reporters in Geneva that El Obeid, which originally housed between 500,000 to 600,000 residents, now accommodates nearly double that population due to the influx of internally displaced persons from regions including North Kordofan, South Kordofan, West Kordofan, and Darfur.

Over 120,000 displaced individuals are residing in formal camps, while a significant number find shelter with host families or in temporary accommodations. Alwardat identified critical shortages of food, water, and fuel, noting that although WFP is delivering food aid to over 100,000 camp residents, substantial numbers remain inadequately supported.

Fuel shortages have compelled WFP to deploy its own trucks for food distribution, as partner organizations struggle to reach those in need. Alwardat recounted meeting families sharing limited food supplies with neighbors who were left without, and an elderly woman who relied solely on WFP aid, which she found insufficient.

With nearly 20 million people in Sudan suffering from acute food insecurity, Alwardat cautioned that the situation will worsen without increased funding and resources.