Help Mercy Corps Support Those in Sudan

Background

One year on—the war in Sudan has devastated the country. Communities in Sudan are experiencing unprecedented waves of displacement—more than eight million people fled their homes. Access to basic necessities like food, shelter, and health services are limited for most people.

“Enduring a year of constant artillery and gunfire noises, even basic tasks posed serious risks due to stray bullets and ongoing clashes.” Leena, a Mercy Corps team member 

On April 15, 2023, fighting broke out across Sudan between two rival groups, the Sudanese army and a paramilitary group called Rapid Support Forces. 

“For 12 months, the people of Sudan have endured unimaginable suffering, with millions now facing starvation,” said Sibongani Kayola, Mercy Corps Country Director for Sudan. “Immediate food access and the future of farming in Sudan are at risk. 80% of the population relies on agriculture for income, and the conflict has devastated Sudan's agricultural backbone. Most farms have nothing left, as many farmers have been displaced or had to abandon their farms for fear of attacks.”

How Mercy Corps is responding

Despite significant challenges, aid workers, locally-led community initiatives, and volunteers are providing lifelines to those trapped in conflict or hard-to-reach areas.

Mercy Corps is actively responding to the crisis in Sudan, delivering much-needed humanitarian assistance to those affected by the ongoing conflict across seven states. Our local teams are providing immediate support to displaced communities while laying the groundwork for long-term recovery after the violence ends.

Mercy Corps has delivered cash aid to internally displaced people to help more than 12,000 families meet their daily needs, enabling them to buy essentials like food, water, medicine, and hygiene supplies.

To ensure more sustainable long-term recovery, Mercy Corps is supporting smallholder farmers by supplying seeds and agricultural supplies to sow new crops. The majority of the population depend on agriculture for income, and farmers who have remained on their land have been unable to plant crops due to lack of resources.

Since 2004, Mercy Corps has worked in Sudan providing humanitarian support like access to clean water and creating new employment and economic opportunities. We are committed to supporting the people of Sudan through this latest crisis and beyond.