Terrified Sudanese have been trapped in their homes as fighting between the military and paramilitary troops began April 15th and continues to increase in the capital, Khartoum, and surrounding areas. Tens of thousands have been fleeing, taking whatever belongings they can carry, as they desperately try to get out of the conflict areas with their families. Men, women, and children can be seen leaving with luggage, some on foot, others crowding into vehicles. 

Although the military and its paramilitary rival have agreed to strike a truce, several attempts at deescalating the conflict and violence have collapsed. The continual fighting has left hundreds of people dead and thousands injured. Loud gunfire continues to shake the capital city of Khartoum, and witnesses have reported airstrikes, tank fire, and mass troop movements. A U.S. diplomatic convoy and European Union homes have been attacked. The violence continues to expand throughout the country in Darfur, El Obeid and Merowe.  

Desperate Sudanese families have been running out of food and other supplies as they shelter in their homes from the gun battles, bombardment and airstrikes on the streets outside. Hospitals have been attacked, damaged and forced to close or have been overwhelmed by the wounded, with staff exhausted and medical supplies depleted. Increasingly, armed fighters have turned to looting shops and robbing anyone who dares step outside. Some MFH and partner staff have been trapped in their homes, The Bishop of El Obeid’s residence was invaded. The Our Lady Queen of Africa Cathedral was attacked and hit by rocket fire. 

Medicines for Humanity (MFH) remains steadfast in our commitment to help our in-country partners and the Sudanese people in the communities that we serve together. MFH works with in-country partners through a health systems strengthening project and through our online training program, Learning for Humanity. These partners and others include the Dioceses of El Obeid, Good Shepherd Sisters in El Obeid, the Mother Bakhita Sisters in El Obeid and Khartoum, the Sacred Heart Sisters in Khartoum, and the Missionary of Charity Sisters (Sisters of Mother Teresa) and community clinics in the Nuba Mountains.   

We have been in contact with the Bishop of El Obeid, the Sisters, and our in-country coordinator to assess everyone’s safety and determine their needs. The Bishop and Sisters have told us that there is immediate need for food, water, medications, basic medical supplies, hygiene supplies, cooking gas, and water filters. As the conflict continues there will be need for security enhancements for the Sisters’ convents and clinics, shelter for families fleeing violence, refrigerators for storing food, medications and vaccines, solar panels to provide power when electricity is limited, and more. Donors have offered their support and we are working to get emergency relief supplies to those who desperately need them. Our hearts go out to everyone affected. 

If you can help and are able to donate, please donate here.