Geneva: The International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC) has issued a critical appeal for enhanced international aid to Sudan, highlighting the expanding humanitarian needs as funding remains insufficient. The call for support comes as the country grapples with one of the world's most significant yet underreported humanitarian crises.

According to Anadolu Agency, IFRC Special Envoy for Sudan, Derk Segaar, emphasized the dire situation during a briefing in Geneva after his visit to Sudan. Segaar pointed out that while global attention often centers on regions like Darfur and Kordofan, the repercussions of over three years of conflict affect the entire nation. The statistics are stark, with 35 million people in need of humanitarian aid, over 9 million internally displaced, and 4.5 million having fled the country.

Segaar highlighted the efforts of the Sudanese Red Crescent, which, with the support of the IFRC, has mobilized 122,000 volunteers across all 18 states. Despite these efforts, he stressed that the overwhelming needs cannot be met without increased international support. The capital, Khartoum, remains severely damaged, and millions of residents continue to struggle with access to essential services such as electricity, clean water, and healthcare. Additionally, the country faces threats from cholera, widespread malnutrition, and seasonal flooding.

The IFRC's emergency appeal for Sudan is currently only 35% funded, a figure Segaar warns could undermine efforts to assist communities in rebuilding after more than 1,200 days of conflict. The call for more resources is urgent, as shrinking humanitarian support may jeopardize the ongoing efforts to provide relief and rebuild resilience in affected communities.