Drone strikes targeting power infrastructure in Sudan have disrupted electricity and water supplies across several states, with the United Nations warning that millions of people are affected by the continued attacks.
The UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) said a drone strike reportedly hit a major electricity transformer station serving Khartoum State, following multiple strikes on power stations in Jazirah, Sennar and Gedaref states the previous day.
The attacks caused widespread power outages and disrupted water supplies, while local authorities reported extensive damage to several power stations. They warned that the damage threatens the stability of Sudan’s national electricity grid.
OCHA called for civilians and civilian infrastructure, including electricity and water facilities, to be protected in accordance with international humanitarian law.
Meanwhile, the conflict continues to displace thousands of people. The International Organization for Migration estimates that nearly 900 people fled villages in North Darfur’s Um Baru locality into neighbouring Chad on Saturday following increased insecurity.
Despite ongoing hostilities and funding shortages, the UN and its humanitarian partners continue to provide emergency assistance to affected communities.
Sudan’s Health Ministry, with support from the World Health Organization, UNICEF and other partners, has also launched a nationwide polio vaccination campaign targeting 11 million children.
However, humanitarian needs continue to outpace available resources. The World Food Programme warns that funding shortages will leave 900,000 people without food assistance starting next month.
OCHA has appealed for additional funding to sustain life-saving operations as conflict, displacement and drought-like conditions linked to El Niño worsen the humanitarian situation across Sudan.
