Mothers and children in the Sudanese region of South Darfur are currently experiencing one of the most severe health emergencies globally, according to Doctors Without Borders. The ongoing violence in the country since April 2023 has exacerbated the situation, leading to dire consequences.
Doctors Without Borders, also known as MSF, revealed that 114 maternal deaths occurred in South Darfur between January and mid-August 2024. Shockingly, over 50% of these deaths took place in medical facilities, with sepsis being identified as the primary cause of death in MSF-supported centers. Additionally, 48 newborns lost their lives to sepsis at two MSF-backed medical facilities during the same period.
The report also highlighted the alarming levels of malnutrition among children in South Darfur, surpassing emergency thresholds. The demand for medical attention far exceeds what MSF can currently provide, underscoring the urgent need for international assistance.
The violence that erupted in Sudan in April 2023 has significantly impacted South Darfur, with critical aid reaching the region only sporadically. The UN World Food Program managed to deliver life-saving food and nutrition to some families in June, offering a glimmer of hope amidst the crisis.
MSF's recent findings revealed that 30,000 children under the age of two were screened for malnutrition in August, with nearly a third identified as acutely malnourished and over 8% classified as severely and acutely malnourished. The situation has been described as unprecedented by MSF staff on the ground.
Dr. Gillian Burkhardt, MSF's sexual and reproductive health activity manager in South Darfur, expressed deep concern over the lack of international response to the crisis. She emphasized the preventable nature of many deaths occurring in the region due to the breakdown of essential services.
Particularly distressing were the conditions at Nyala Teaching Hospital and Kas Rural Hospital, where 46 maternal deaths were reported between January and August. A staggering 78% of these deaths occurred within 24 hours of admission, underscoring the critical need for immediate and adequate healthcare.
Women in South Darfur face significant challenges accessing medical care, with high transportation costs and a shortage of functioning facilities hindering their ability to seek timely treatment. Many women are forced to give birth in unsterilized environments due to the lack of essential resources, leading to preventable infections and tragic outcomes.
MSF remains one of the few international organizations operating in Nyala, the capital of South Darfur, as most humanitarian groups have not returned since the outbreak of war. The situation in South Darfur demands urgent attention and support to prevent further loss of life and alleviate the suffering of vulnerable mothers and children.
