Khartoum: At least 80 individuals have succumbed to a cholera outbreak, with more than 2,100 cases reported across Sudan's five Darfur states, as noted by the UN Children's Fund (UNICEF) on Sunday.

According to Anadolu Agency, UNICEF stated that 20 deaths and 1,180 cases were documented in Tawila, located in North Darfur State, since June 21. The total cholera caseload in the five Darfur states has reached approximately 2,140 as of July 30, with at least 80 fatalities.

The UN agency highlighted the risk to more than 640,000 children who face dangers from violence, hunger, and cholera in North Darfur. Sheldon Yett, UNICEF representative for Sudan, emphasized the ease with which cholera can be prevented and treated, yet it continues to impact Tawila and other areas in Darfur, endangering the lives of children, particularly the youngest and most vulnerable.

Efforts to curb the disease's spread are ongoing, but Yett indicated that persistent violence is exacerbating the situation, outpacing the ability to meet the growing needs. He urged for secure and unhindered access to swiftly aid the affected children, stressing the urgency of the situation.

UN data reveals that over 94,170 cholera cases and more than 2,370 deaths have been recorded across 17 of Sudan's 18 states since August 2024. The country has been embroiled in conflict between the army and the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) since April 2023, resulting in over 20,000 deaths and the displacement of 14 million people, as per UN and local authority reports. However, US university research suggests the death toll may be closer to 130,000.