Stabilization centres are a lifeline for Sudan’s malnourished children
31 March 2024 – Nearly a year after conflict erupted in Sudan, close to 25 million people in the country need humanitarian assistance. Of this number, 18 million people face acute hunger – 5 million of them at emergency levels.
About 3.5 million children aged under 5 years – every 7th child in Sudan – have acute malnutrition, over 710 000 of whom have severe acute malnutrition (SAM). More than 106 000 of this number suffer from SAM with medical complications and require inpatient management at stabilization centres. If the situation does not improve, it is projected that in Darfur alone, 200 000 children will suffer from life-threatening hunger in 2024.
Of Sudan’s 161 stabilization centres, only 103 centres in 17 states are fully functional and able to provide life-saving treatment to children who have SAM with medical complications. Another 18 stabilization centres in 5 states are partially functional, while 40 centres have closed their doors entirely.
