Shible Sahbani, the World Health Organization (WHO) Representative and Head of Mission in Sudan, has warned of an extremely grave humanitarian situation due to the ongoing conflict, which has lasted nearly three years. This crisis has directly impacted the health system, which is facing unprecedented challenges amidst disease outbreaks, malnutrition, and the suspension of many essential services.
In statements to Al Jazeera Mubasher from Port Sudan, Sahbani explained that the health crisis in Sudan is characterized by a “dangerous duality.” On one hand, the country is witnessing a widespread surge in infectious diseases, malnutrition, and chronic illnesses.
“On the other hand,” he added, “health facilities are suffering from acute shortages of medical supplies, human resources, and financial means, compounded by difficulties in accessing healthcare due to security concerns.”
He noted that the health system has been subjected to repeated attacks during the war, targeting hospitals, ambulances, and healthcare providers. These attacks have led to the destruction of facilities and equipment, as well as the injury and death of a significant number of health workers and patients.
Sahbani indicated that the greatest current threat is the outbreak of infectious diseases. He highlighted the spread of cholera across more than 18 states, resulting in approximately 3,500 deaths. Additionally, dengue fever has claimed 1,084 lives, and the country has recorded over 2.7 million cases of malaria, alongside a worsening hunger and malnutrition crisis.
In this context, Sahbani revealed that approximately 44,000 children have been hospitalized due to severe acute malnutrition. He warned of the dangerous repercussions of this crisis, as well as the rise in maternal mortality during childbirth and the prevalence of chronic diseases such as hypertension.
