The conflict that doesn’t make headline news

Sudan under siege

It’s a war that hasn’t captured the headlines – but over two years of fighting in Sudan has created the largest child displacement crisis in the world.

In recent weeks as the siege of El Fasher escalated, a grim picture continues to emerge:

Thousands of children killed, injured and subjected to unspeakable violence. Terror after terror as gunfire and shelling echo in the streets. Rising malnutrition among children. Collapse of healthcare systems. Growing essential needs rising faster than the limited resources could cover.

“I saw many people being killed in the streets, including women and children, struck down by random gunfire and stray bullets,” one of our humanitarian workers shared.

“The people of Sudan deserve safety, dignity and peace. Civilians need a safe passage and unhindered humanitarian access now. Time has run out. They cannot wait any longer .”
 

A baby born amidst conflict      

Asma^*, mother of six, was heavily pregnant when she had to flee the escalation of attacks in her home in June 2024. In the ensuing panic, she lost all communication with her husband.

After a 2-month long journey on foot she finally arrived at a reception centre for displaced people. 

There, Asma said all her fatigue disappeared, and she gave birth to her baby at the mobile health clinic. It was the first birth at the Save the Children health facility. 

In the face of the tremendous challenges, there are moments of joy – and a glimmer of hope for the future. Asma shares:

“When I met with the Save the Children doctor, she helped me a lot, so I named my newborn daughter after her [Sara], and I hope she will become a doctor like her.”

“I wish for good health, wellness and a bright future for Sudan, and for the war to stop, and for us to return to our homes and our country ...”

What we’re doing    

Save the Children has been responding in Sudan since 1983. Since the siege of El Fasher began in April 2024, we have significantly scaled up our humanitarian response – made possible with help from our supporters and local partners.

We have reached families fleeing violence, providing:

• Health and nutrition support in permanent and mobile health clinics
• Water, sanitation and hygiene services
• Cash and voucher assistance
• Child friendly spaces
• Child protection.

As the situation in Sudan continues to evolve, you can help families like that of Asma and baby Sara.

*Name changed to protect identity