The Famine Early Warning Systems Network (FEWS NET) has reported that approximately 23 million people in Sudan are expected to experience acute food insecurity during 2026.
In its latest report, FEWS NET projected that acute food insecurity will expand to IPC Phase 4 (Emergency) across several areas, particularly in Darfur and Kordofan, as well as parts of central and southern Sudan. The report attributes the deterioration to the ongoing conflict between the Sudanese Armed Forces and the Rapid Support Forces (RSF), widespread displacement, the destruction of livelihoods, and restrictions on humanitarian assistance and trade.
The report noted that IPC Phase 4 (Emergency) conditions are expected to spread across large parts of North, Central, South, and East Darfur, most of the Greater Kordofan region, and Blue Nile State.
It further warned that some households could face IPC Phase 5 (Catastrophe)—the most severe level of food insecurity—in Ambro, Karnoi, and Tina in North Darfur; Dilling and Kadugli and their surrounding areas in South Kordofan; El Obeid and nearby communities in North Kordofan; as well as among some internally displaced people in Darfur and Kordofan.
The report cautioned that any escalation in fighting or the imposition of new sieges on conflict-affected areas could drive hunger, malnutrition, and mortality rates to famine levels.
