The director-general of the World Health Organization has delivered a stark warning about the escalating humanitarian catastrophe in Sudan's Darfur region, describing the situation as "unimaginable" and "inhumane."
Dr Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus expressed grave concerns during a press briefing in Cairo, highlighting the severe deterioration of conditions in the conflict-ravaged area. The WHO chief's emotional appeal comes as violence continues to grip the region, creating what he termed an unbearable reality for civilians.
A Crisis Beyond Comprehension
"The situation in Darfur is unimaginable. It's inhuman. The world has forgotten about the people of Darfur," Dr Tedros stated with visible emotion. His powerful testimony underscores the severity of a crisis that has largely faded from international headlines despite intensifying humanitarian needs.
The WHO leader emphasised that the ongoing conflict has created conditions where basic survival has become a daily struggle for millions. Healthcare infrastructure has collapsed in many areas, leaving vulnerable populations without access to essential medical services.
Healthcare System in Collapse
According to WHO assessments, the health system in Darfur is facing complete breakdown. Many hospitals and clinics have been damaged or destroyed in the fighting, while medical supplies are running critically low. Health workers are operating in extremely dangerous conditions, with many having fled the violence.
The organisation reports that preventable diseases are spreading rapidly due to overcrowded living conditions, poor sanitation, and limited access to clean water. Malnutrition rates, particularly among children, have reached alarming levels.
Urgent International Response Needed
Dr Tedros called for immediate international action to address the deepening crisis. "We cannot turn our backs on the people of Darfur," he urged, appealing for increased humanitarian access and funding.
The WHO is working to coordinate emergency health responses despite significant security challenges and access restrictions. However, the director-general stressed that current efforts are insufficient to meet the scale of need.
As the conflict enters another devastating chapter, humanitarian organisations warn that without urgent intervention, the situation in Darfur could escalate into one of the worst humanitarian disasters of our time.
