Thousands of Sudanese refugees who fled the brutal conflict in their homeland are now facing a new struggle for survival in Egypt, as humanitarian aid fails to meet the growing demand.
Since the war erupted in April 2023 between Sudan's army and the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF), over half a million people have crossed into Egypt. Many arrive traumatised and destitute, having witnessed atrocities in Khartoum and Darfur.
A City Under Strain
Cairo's already overburdened infrastructure is buckling under the influx. "We're seeing families sleeping in parks and metro stations," reports a local aid worker. "The UNHCR registration process can take months, leaving people in legal limbo without access to work or proper healthcare."
Collapsing Support Systems
International organisations warn of a looming catastrophe:
- Only 30% of required funding has been secured for 2024 refugee response
- Food rations have been cut by 40% since October
- Overcrowded shelters report cholera outbreaks
"We fled death in Sudan only to face starvation here," says Amal, a mother of three from Khartoum. Like many professionals among the refugees, her qualifications aren't recognised in Egypt.
Regional Implications
The crisis threatens to destabilise the region further:
- Egypt already hosts 9 million migrants before this crisis
- Neighbouring countries show signs of refugee fatigue
- Human traffickers exploit the desperation of new arrivals
With peace talks stalled and Sudan's conflict intensifying, aid agencies predict the exodus will continue throughout 2024, testing the limits of international compassion and regional stability.
