Humanitarian Crises in Africa Worsen as Conflict Escalates

Protracted armed conflicts in Sudan, Yemen, the Democratic Republic of Congo, and Haiti are fueling hunger and displacing people at an alarming rate in 2025.

The world is witnessing a desperate need for humanitarian attention and funding as these countries struggle with urgent crises that have been overlooked. Here's a snapshot of the situation:

Sudan: Largest Displacement since War Began

Since April 2023, Sudan has witnessed the largest displacement of people, with over 12 million forced from their homes due to civil war between the Sudanese army and paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF). The conflict has rapidly spread across various regions, including Darfur.

The United Nations estimates that up to 15,000 people have been killed in Darfur alone. Moreover, 8 million Sudanese are displaced within the country, while 3 million have become refugees in neighboring countries such as Chad, Egypt, and South Sudan.

Human rights groups accuse both sides of widespread human rights abuses, including rape, torture, and arbitrary arrests. The paramilitary RSF is also accused of ethnic cleansing in Darfur.

The war has led to a catastrophic food crisis, with the UN declaring famine in North Darfur region in August last year. Around 25 million people in Sudan face acute hunger, with children most at risk of developing severe acute malnutrition.

Yemen: Humanitarian Crisis Deepens

Yemen is facing one of the world's most severe humanitarian crises, primarily due to a combination of ongoing conflict, economic collapse, and underdevelopment. The conflict escalated in 2015 when Houthi rebels took control of the capital Sana’a, leading to a devastating war.

The UN reports that 19.5 million people - almost half the population - require assistance. The crisis has drawn in regional powers, notably Saudi Arabia and Iran, exacerbating the situation. A blockade imposed by the Saudi-led coalition has severely restricted access to food, medicine, fuel, and other essential supplies.

Yemen's economy has collapsed, with millions losing their livelihoods. The rial currency is in shambles as oil and gas exports remain obstructed. Food costs have increased by 28 per cent this year, further complicating the struggles of Yemeni families to afford basic necessities.

Around 4.5 million Yemenis have been displaced, highlighting the dire humanitarian needs of this already fragile nation.

Global Community Must Take Action

The escalating conflicts in Sudan, Yemen, and other African countries demand immediate attention from the global community. Efforts must be made to deliver aid to those affected by conflict, protect human rights, and support sustainable peace initiatives that prioritize humanitarian needs.