The World Health Organization (WHO) has called on all parties in Sudan to respect the neutrality of health care and guarantee unrestricted access to medical facilities for those injured by the fighting in Khartoum and elsewhere. The agency reminded combatants of their obligations under International Humanitarian Law to protect the wounded and sick, civilians, health‑care workers, ambulances and health facilities.
The power struggle between two Sudanese generals escalated dramatically on Saturday and Sunday, resulting in dozens of civilian and soldier deaths. Since April 13, WHO reports that more than 83 people have been killed and over 1,126 injured across Khartoum, South Kordofan, North Darfur, Northern State and other regions, with the heaviest fighting now concentrated in Khartoum City. Movement in the capital is severely restricted due to insecurity, creating challenges for doctors, nurses, patients and ambulances trying to reach health facilities and endangering those who need urgent medical care.
WHO is monitoring health needs and resources in Khartoum and other affected cities to ensure that limited supplies are directed where they are most needed. Supplies distributed before the recent escalation have now been exhausted, and many of the nine hospitals in Khartoum treating injured civilians report shortages of blood, transfusion equipment, intravenous fluids, medical supplies and other life‑saving commodities. There are also reports of shortages of specialized personnel, including anesthesiologists. Water and power cuts are impairing the functionality of health facilities, and fuel shortages for hospital generators are further compromising care.
The organization affirmed that it will continue to work with partners and health authorities as the situation evolves, aiming to fill gaps in health‑care provision—particularly trauma care—while ensuring the safety of its staff and their families.
Comments are closed for this story.