Statement: IFRC appalled by the killing of Sudanese Red Crescent volunteer in North Kordofan

Khartoum/Nairobi/Geneva,13June2026 –The International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC) isappalled by thedeathof Sudanese Red Crescent Society volunteer AhmedYaqoubOthman, on 10 June 2026, in the outskirts of ElObiedCity, in NorthKordofan.Ahmed was killed while he was providing first aid to injured people following earlierattacks. Hewas a volunteer of the Sudanese Red Crescent Society's NorthKordofanBranch. He was serving his community and supporting humanitarian activities when the incident occurred.The IFRC extends its deepest condolences to Ahmed's family, friends, fellowvolunteersand staff of the Sudanese Red Crescent Society during thisdifficult time.Ahmed's death is a painful reminder of the risks faced by humanitarian workers and volunteers who dedicate themselves to helping others, often under challenging and dangerous circumstances. His commitment to serving vulnerable people embodied the humanitarian values of the Red Cross and Red Crescent.The IFRC reiterates that humanitarian personnel and volunteers must be able to carry out their work safely. Their dedication strengthens communities and provides vital support to people affected by crises.Our network mourns the loss of a colleague who served with compassion,commitment,and humanity. Ahmed's contribution to his community will not be forgotten.For more information,please contact:[email protected]:EzaldeenSuliman, +249 90 570 6473 InNairobi:    SusanMbalu, +254 733 827 654In Geneva:Tommaso Della Longa +41 79 708 4367

Forced to flee, compelled to help: They were living normal lives as students, volunteers and neighbours until conflict forced them to leave all behind. But these dedicated Sudanese volunteers are still helping others.

New Red Vest podcast episode: 'Quiet strength' – Three years of conflict in Sudan have forced millions from their homes. While the crisis gets little outside attention, the people of Sudan persevere.

'A crisis in motion': IFRC sounds alarm as Sudan's humanitarian needs escalate

Port Sudan/Nairobi/Geneva,13April 2026—The International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC) warnsthatshifting patterns of displacement and returnin Sudancreate rapidly evolving humanitarian needs across the country.Three years into the conflict, millions of people arenow bothfleeing violenceandmany arereturning to devastated communities. In contrast,others continue to be displaced,reshaping humanitarian needs and forcing aid actors to adapt in real time.Sudanremainsthe largest displacement crisis in the world, with millions forced from their homes and an estimated 33 million people in need of humanitarianassistancein 2026.Yetas needs continue to grow, funding is declining, threatening humanitarian actors' abilityto respond effectively.ThierryBalloy,IFRCHead of DelegationinSudan,said:“The needs are immense and changing every day. Many families, mostly womenalone with their children,have fled multiple times over the past three years. Today, we see people returning to areas where basic services no longer exist — no water, no healthcare, no schools.We call on the international community to show solidarity and support the humanitarian response.We cannot leave affected communities inSudan to face this crisis alone”.A crisis in motion: displacement and return collideThe conflict has continuously shifted across Sudan, from Khartoum to Darfur and the Kordofan states, driving repeated waves of displacement. At the same time, growing numbers of people are returning home,often to find their homesdestroyedandinfrastructure and basic servicesseverely diminished or absent. For many families, the choice isunimaginable: remain displaced with limitedsupport orreturn to communities where “there is nothing left to go back to”.Despite this, people continue to return,rebuilding their lives from scratch, often without access to water, healthcare, or livelihoods.Rapidly adaptingthe responseThe IFRC and the Sudanese Red Crescent Society (SRCS) are adjusting their operations to support displaced people,returneesand host communities at the same time. Flexible cashassistancehas become essential, enabling families to meet their most urgent needs.Expanding andmaintainingthis approach will be critical to meet rapidly evolving needs andpreventfurther deterioration of living conditions.AhmedAltayebSuliman,Secretary General, Sudan Red Crescent Society (SRCS) said:“Cashassistanceallows families to make impossible choices — whether to feed their children, access healthcare, or restart their lives. But the needs areoverwhelming. Sudan cannot be forgotten.”In this context,the IFRC isfocusing the response on:Health,waterandsanitation:Emergency health services, includingmental health, andmobile clinics to reach underserved areas.Water,sanitationand hygiene support to reduce disease risks Cash distribution. A safe,efficientand dignified way to support people in vulnerable situations. Immediaterelief,foodandwater forfamilies facing severe shortages.As needs evolve, so too must the response.A regional crisis: spillover across bordersAt the same time, growing insecurity, new displacement flows, and access constraints are compounding humanitarian needs across the region.More than4.5 million peoplehave fled toneighbouringcountries. Overcrowding,insecurity,and limited resources are deepening vulnerabilities for both refugees and host communities.The regional impact of the Sudan crisis continues to intensify, placing growing pressure on already fragile neighbouring contexts.Fundingurgently neededIn a crisis defined by constant change, the IFRC calls for increased, flexible funding that can be quickly redirected as needs shift.Thehumanitarian responseremainscriticallyunderfunded,and funds areurgentlyneeded.Without sustained international attention and support, millions of people will continue to face deepening humanitarian needs, both within Sudan and across the region.Note to editors:Visuals:Additionalphotos and video available here:From Sudan:LINKFrom the surroundingcountries: LINKFor more information or to request an interview, please contact:[email protected] Sudan: Anette Andresen,+47415 19 115  +249 11 005 9003In Nairobi: Susan Mbalu,+254 733 827 654In Geneva: Tommaso Della Longa,+41 79 708 43 67

IFRC warns: Sudan crisis spills across borders as humanitarian crisis worsens

Juba, Nairobi, Geneva, 17 March 2026 – The effects of the ongoing conflict in Sudan are felt far beyond its borders. The International Federation of the Red Cross Red Crescent (IFRC) warns the regional humanitarian situation in Chad, Egypt, Ethiopia, South Sudan, and Uganda is deteriorating rapidly, as funding dries up while needs continue to rise.Almost 4.5 million people have now fled Sudan to neighboring countries, placing heavy strain on already fragile systems. Overcrowded camps and limited funding have deepened humanitarian needs for refugees and host communities across the region.Pierre Kremer, Deputy Regional Director for Africa said, “The Sudan crisis doesn't stop at its borders. People flee in search of safety but arrive in overcrowded shelters without enough food or clean water, where medicines are running dangerously low. Most people in refugee camps are women and children, and they face a high risk of violence. Floods, drought, skyrocketing food prices, and disease outbreaks mean Sudanese refugees and host communities are repeatedly hit in every aspect of their lives. Especially with rainy season around the corner and the impact of the conflict in the Middle East, the situation becomes a nightmare.”Families struggling to surviveMore than 450,000 children in South Sudan are at risk of severe acute malnutrition. There are outbreaks of measles and malaria in Ethiopia and in Chad, access to water has become a daily struggle.In eastern Chad, border areas are overcrowded, some refugee sites are full and can no longer receive new arrivals. In Tiné and Adré, thousands of people are awaiting relocation. Many displaced people are living under plastic sheets or building shelters with only the clothes they could carry from Sudan. Two out of three registered refugee children in Chad are not enrolled in school, and many others, both in host communities and among refugees, are severely malnourished. Food rations have been reduced by half due to lack of funding.A transit center in Renk, South Sudan, hosts 8,000 people, waiting to be relocated to established refugee camps. Many are sleeping in makeshift tents, as the shelters can only accommodate 2,000 people. Food is in critically short supply and has become very expensive due to the large number of people Renk is hosting. People collect firewood to sell, to hopefully earn enough to feed their children.(See IFRC's latest reporting from refugee camps in Chad and South Sudan).Situation continues to worsenVolunteers from the Red Cross and Red Crescent National Societies in Chad, Egypt, Ethiopia, Uganda, and South Sudan, supported by the IFRC, are working tirelessly to help people, providing clean water, build latrines, psychosocial support, cash assistance.The South Sudan Red Cross built a female friendly centre in Renk: a safe and private space where women and girls can meet, dance, and speak confidentially about experiences of gender-based violence. With support of the IFRC, it also promotes women’s economic independence by providing materials for women to knit traditional bedsheets that they can sell to earn an income.The Chadian Red Cross, with support from the IFRC, operates humanitarian service points where volunteers help newly arrived refugees. They provide first aid, mental health support, and safe spaces for children. To increase access to water, a resource that is increasingly scarce in the eastern part of the country, they drill boreholes.In Ethiopia, the Ethiopian Red Cross support returnees with financial assistance to start small businesses. Some people have been able to open small electronics or poultry businesses. Yet the scale of the crisis continues to outpace the support available, especially with the rainy season starting in a few weeks.On top of this, the IFRC is already experiencing the impact of the conflict in the Middle East. Disruptions to supply chains are making it more difficult to deliver essential aid into the country. For example, tents currently stored in Dubai may face delays, and shipments of cholera treatment kits to Chad have also been affected.“For many families in Chad, South Sudan, or Ethiopia it already feels like the worst possible situation. But with higher logistical costs, more funding drying and the rainy season approaching, conditions are likely to deteriorate even further. The IFRC is supporting National Societies to help people survive today, but we urgently need international support to help families rebuild tomorrow. We call on governments, institutions, and private partners to act now. Without urgent international support, lives will be lost, and the situation will worsen dramatically,” Kremer added.Note to editors:Visuals: Audiovisual material is available for download and use.IFRC Sudan Complex Emergency appeal for fundingFor more information or to request an interview, please contact: [email protected] In N’Djamena: Alexis Aubin, +235 3031528In Juba: Daniëlle Brouwer, +316 10222382   In Nairobi: Susan Mbalu, +254 733 827 654In Geneva: Tommaso Della Longa, +41 79 708 43 67; Scott Craig, +41 76 370 3575

Under pressure: Special World Water Day reporting from camps in eastern Chad, where refugees are coping with extreme heat, water scarcity, and rising food prices.

'Now I've lost everything': Conflict in Sudan has forced millions to seek safety in neighbouring countries, where they face an uncertain future.

Statement: IFRC appalled by the killing of a Sudanese Red Crescent volunteer

Geneva, 9March 2026 - The International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC) isappalledby the killing of a Sudanese Red Crescent volunteer while on duty on 5March 2026.Um Salama Mohammed Abdullah wasavolunteer from South Kordofan State Branch. She was on duty in the maternity ward in Al-Dilling hospital when the health facility was reportedly attacked. She was 24 years old. The IFRC sends its deepest condolences to herfamily, friends and all our Sudanese Red Crescent colleagues providing life-savingassistanceeven during thisdifficult time.TheRedCross and Red Crescent emblems aresymbolsof protection, humanity, neutrality,and hope. Yet too often,our volunteersand staffarekilledwhile performing life-saving work. The loss of Um Salama Mohammed Abdullahis a tragic reminder of the dangers faced by those who dedicate their lives to helping others.Any attack on humanitarian personnel weakens entire communities and compromises our ability to help the people who need it most.  The IFRC calls fortheprotectionof civilians, humanitarianworkers,and medical personnel: it is a legal and moral obligation. Ournetworkismourning,but this is not enough. The killing must end now. Humanitarians must be protected.The Sudanese Red Crescent has lost 22 colleagues on duty since the beginning of the conflict (April 2023).Since the start of the year, globally, 5 members of the IFRC networkhave passed awaywhile on duty. For more information: [email protected]   In Geneva: Tommaso Della Longa, +41 79 708 4367Lea Salwan, +41 79 245 70 49In Sudan: Anette Andresen, +249 11 01201 93, WhatsApp + 47 415 19 115

IFRC on five Sudanese Red Crescent volunteers killed: 'We are horrified'

Geneva, 28 October 2025 – The International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC) is horrified, shocked, and deeply saddened by the killing of five volunteers of the Sudanese Red Crescent (SRC) who were on duty in the city of Bara, North Kordofan, on 27 October. Another three volunteers are still missing.The Sudanese Red Crescent team was on an official mission as part of a food distribution team in the city of Bara. They were clearly identified by wearing Red Crescent vests, which are supposed to provide them with full protection, and carried identification cards issued by the local branch.Any attack on humanitarian teams is unacceptable. We strongly reiterate our call for unwavering respect for the Red Cross and Red Crescent emblems and the crucial humanitarian services they represent.The IFRC sends its deepest condolences to the families of those killed and to their friends and colleagues.The Sudanese Red Crescent has lost 21 colleagues on duty since the beginning of the conflict.Since the beginning of 2025, 25 Red Cross and Red Crescent staff and volunteers from across the globe have lost their lives while carrying out their humanitarian duties.This is unacceptable.For information, please contact: [email protected] Nairobi: Susan Mbalu, +254 733 827 654In Geneva: Tommaso Della Longa, +41 79 708 43 67

World Refugee Day 2025: Bringing hope to people forced to flee world’s largest displacement crisis

For more than two years, the Egyptian Red Crescent has stood as a vital lifeline for tens of thousands of people forced to flee the devastating conflict in Sudan.Since the crisis began in April 2023, Red Crescent volunteers and staff have mobilized quickly —responding within just two days by setting up humanitarian service points at the Qustul and Arqeen border crossings in southern Egypt.These points have offered emergency first aid, medical screenings, psychosocial support, food, water, and hygiene supplies for thousands of Sudanese families arriving in Egypt with little more than the clothes on their backs.“We acted immediately,” said Dr. Amal Emam, executive director of the Egyptian Red Crescent. “Within 48 hours, we had humanitarian service points up and running at the main border crossings—offering not just relief but also dignity and hope.”The efforts have not wavered over the past 2 years,as fighting and displacement in Sudan forced more than12.3 million people from their homes. Most were displaced within Sudan, butnearly one third – 4 million people –have become refugees in neighbouring countries such as Chad, Egypt, and South Sudan.To help meet the dire needs of desperate people seeking safety within Egypt, the Egyptian Red Crescent has:Provided medical care to over 139,000 peopleDelivered cash assistance to 5,000 familiesOffered psychosocial support to over 10,000 individuals, including childrenFacilitated 12,940 local and international phone and internet connections to help people restore contact with their loved onesDistributed more than 210,000 hygiene kits, 1.3 million bottles of water, and 1 million ready-to-eat mealsTo strengthen its efforts, the Red Crescent activated its Aswan branch and trained response teams across border regions—ensuring services were available not only at crossing points but also in Aswan city, Abu Simbel, and key transit hubs like the Aswan railway station.Special attention has also been paid to people with disabilities, older adults, and children—ensuring inclusive access to aid and the creation of child-friendly spaces for psychological support.International solidarity, swift and ongoing actionBeyond Egypt’s borders, the Egyptian Red Crescent extended solidarity to those still inside Sudan. In collaboration with the Egyptian government, it dispatched three ships carrying over 1,000 tonnes of life-saving relief supplies to Sudanese communities still struggling within the country.These efforts would not be possible without the hundreds of Egyptian Red Crescent volunteers, who have contributed more than 340,000 hours of service since the onset of the crisis—offering compassion, courage, and consistency in the face of one of the region’s most complex humanitarian emergencies.The Egyptian Red Crescent’s response to the large-scale population movement from Sudan was has also been supported by the IFRC through its Disaster Response Emergency Fund (IFRC-DREF), which allocated 305,832 Swiss francs to the response. This funding enabled the ERCS to provide immediate, life-saving assistance.To scale up the response and address growing humanitarian needs at the Sudanese-Egyptian border, the IFRC also launched an Emergency Appeal, which is also mobilizing additional resources to support the ERCS in expanding its operations.Learn more about how you can join us in solidarity with refugees around the worldHelp support refugees and others displaced by fighting in SudanIFRC’s approach to migration and displacementGlobal Route-Based Migration ProgrammeHumanitarian Service PointsWorld Refugee Day: Syrian refugees in Jordan stitch a new life through skills training and education

Sudan conflict: Two years on — a nation at the breaking point

Once known for its cultural wealth and resilience, Sudan is now a place where the sound of gunfire regularly replaces the call to prayer, and silence falls heavy over homes left empty. Yet, even amid the rubble and ruin, resilience endures.“Right now, there are children who have been displaced, families torn apart, and people who have died far away from their loved ones,” says Rania Mohamed, who was forced to leave her home in Al Jazirah State due to the fighting. “We are experiencing immense suffering as citizens.”15 April 2025 marks a grim milestone for Sudan: two years has spiralled into one of the world’s worst humanitarian catastrophes.More than 700 days of a deepening humanitarian crisis have battered this nation: people displaced, cities in ruins, and systems on the brink of total collapse.The conflict has decimated infrastructure, halted public services, and fractured communities, with critical transport routes and essential services barely functioning. With the rainy season on the horizon, further flooding threatens to cut off aid corridors, compounding the suffering.Urgent need for supportTo respond to the unprecedented needs, the IFRC launched two emergency appeals; 80 million Swiss francs for the Sudan Complex Emergency Appeal and 47.5 million Swiss francs for the Regional Population Movement Appeal supporting displaced populations in neighbouring countries.These appeals aim to support Sudanese Red Crescent Society (SRCS) efforts to sustain vital services and scale-up humanitarian operations amidst growing needs, logistical challenges, and escalating violence.“We are calling on the international community to help restore our operational capacity—so we can continue to reach those who need us most,” saidMrs. Aida Al-Sayed Abdullah, Secretary General of the Sudanese Red Crescent Society. “The needs are immense, and we cannot do this alone.”A nation displacedMeanwhile, the needs continue to mount. Sudan is now home to the world’s largest displacement crisis. More than 12.6 million people have fled their homes, with 8.6 million internally displaced and another 3.8 million crossing into neighbouring countries like Chad, South Sudan, Egypt, Uganda and Ethiopia.Present in all 18 states with nearly 12,000 active volunteers, the SRCS has been a lifeline to communities. Despite immense operational challenges and direct threats to their safety, including the tragic deaths of SRCS staff and volunteers, they have reached over 7.5 million people. They continue to provide lifesaving assistance, including food, water, psychosocial support, and dignified burials.Tragically, humanitarian workers providing those life-saving services have been injured and even killed while working to save the lives of others.“Since the outbreak of fighting, [the SRCS has] been gravely impacted,”the secretary general added. “We have lost volunteers and staff members—humanitarian workers who died while serving their communities.“Our headquarters and many branch offices have been damaged or destroyed. Ambulances, vehicles, medical equipment, and warehouses have been looted or lost. Yet, despite these enormous challenges, we remain on the ground, working under dangerous and exhausting conditions, but we have not stopped.”For this reason, the IFRC has repeatedly called on all parties to the conflict to respect International Humanitarian Law and protect humanitarian workers. Without such protection, the ability to deliver aid remains dangerously constrained.Humanitarian needs at alarming levelsAccording to the United Nations' Organization for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs, over two-thirds of Sudan’s population—some 30.4 million people—need humanitarian assistance. Half of them are children. In conflict-ravaged areas like Darfur and Al Jazirah, the situation is particularly acute.SRCS volunteers on the ground report families going days without food, relying on contaminated water sources, and surviving in overcrowded displacement camps like Zamzam in North Darfur, now swelling to over 500,000 people.Gasim El Basheer, an internally displaced person from Al Jazirah State, says: “There are so many issues that need greater attention—displacement, hunger, missing persons. This war has taken too much.”Millions of people now face acute food insecurity, violence, destruction of farmland, and disruption of trade routes have devastated food production. “Eighty percent of the population relies on agriculture and livestock,” says a local SRCS representative, “but the conflict has taken away their land, their tools, and their hope.”Health systems on the edgeThe health system has also been ravaged. Up to 80 percent of health facilities are non-functional in conflict affected areas, and those that remain open are stretched beyond capacity with shortages of staff, medicine, and even electricity.Cholera, dengue, measles, and malaria are surging. In 2024, 12 States battled multiple epidemics. By March 2025, over 58,000 cholera cases were recorded, fuelled by flooding, poor sanitation, and overcrowding.Volunteer Hawa Eizaldeen Abdallah Hamed reflects: “Before the displacement, there were no diseases like cholera. Now they’re everywhere.”Widespread protection risksThe conflict has also triggered a protection emergency. Gender-based violence, including rape and sexual exploitation, is widespread. Children have been recruited into armed groups, subjected to early and forced marriage, or denied access to education, as up to 90 per cent of schools remain closed. Many displaced children are unaccompanied or separated from families.The SRCS is providing critical protection services, reaching over 650,000 people with safe spaces, psychosocial support, dignity kits, and referrals for survivors of violence. However, the needs continue to outpace the available resources.Despite immense challenges, the unwavering dedication of Sudanese Red Crescent volunteers offers a glimmer of hope.“They are from the communities they serve,” notes Thierry Balloy IFRC Head of Delegation, Sudan and Eritrea. “They know the terrain, the people, and the needs better than anyone. They are the first in and the last out.”

Statement: IFRC mourns the killing of Sudanese Red Crescent volunteer

The IFRC is deeply saddened by the death of Sudanese Red Crescent Society (SRCS) volunteer, Iman Abbas. On 1 February, she was killed while participating in a SRCS cleaning campaign at the Sabreen open market in Omdurman, which was struck by artillery shelling. The IFRC sends its deepest condolences to Iman's family, her SRCS colleagues and loved ones. In 2024, 32 of our IFRC network volunteers and staff died or were killed while performing their humanitarian duties. Iman is the first colleague we’ve lost this year. Any attack on humanitarian personnel weakens entire communities and compromises our ability to help the people who need it most. We strongly reiterate our call for unwavering respect for the Red Cross, Red Crescent and Red Crystal emblems and the crucial humanitarian services they represent.  For more information or to request an interview, please contact: [email protected]    

Devastating floods displace huge swathes of the population across West and Central Africa

Nairobi/Geneva, 19 September 2024 – Heavy rains over the last few weeks have triggered massive flooding and devastation in West and Central Africa, with hundreds of thousands of people displaced from their destroyed homes in areas already suffering from food insecurity and conflict.Human-induced climate change “is likely to have significantly worsened the situation”, according to scientists at the Red Cross Climate Centre.The International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC) has launched emergency appeals in Chad, Niger, and Nigeria to respond to the catastrophic flooding.Mohammed Mukhier, IFRC Regional Director for Africa says:“Torrential rains have triggered destructive floods that have left millions in dire need of assistance. The floods are testament to climate crisis damage in Africa and how it's affecting vulnerable communities. We need an urgent response now and in the coming weeks with more flooding expected.”In Chad, where an estimated 1.5 million people have been affected, initial assessments point to the destruction of over 164,000 homes, with all 23 provinces of the country involved, and Tandjile, Mayo-Kebbi Est, Logone and Lac among the most afflicted provinces. Over 259,000 hectares of croplands have been wiped out, heightening the risk of food shortages in a country already grappling with chronic food insecurity. With the continuing rise of floodwaters, the humanitarian situation in Chad could deteriorate further.The country has faced increasingly severe floods in recent years, part of a broader pattern of worsening weather in the Sahel due to climate change. Once expected every 10 years, torrential rains now occur every 2 to 5 years. Khalal Sennousi Ahmat, President of the Chad Red Cross, says:“The scenes following the floods in Chad are heartbreaking. Entire villages have been left under water and families have lost everything. The numbers of people affected are expected to rise as the rains continue. Our team’s focus now is to provide shelter, food and medical care, but we need more resources given the scale of the devastation.”A growing concern is the stagnant water that exacerbates unsanitary conditions and risks outbreaks of waterborne disease. Safe drinking water, health services, and sanitation facilities are desperately needed to prevent the spread of deadly diseases such as cholera and malaria.Chad is not alone in suffering the extreme effects of the climate crisis, with many other West and Central African countries experiencing severe weather. Since July, South Sudan has been battling heavy floods, with over 735,000 people affected across 38 counties. Worst-hit areas include Northern Bahr el Ghazal, Jonglei, and Unity, where homes, schools, and health facilities have been destroyed, displacing thousands. Projections indicate that up to 3.3 million people could be affected by October, making it the worst floods in South Sudan's history.Similarly, Nigeria has experienced severe flooding following continuous heavy rainfall, affecting over 1 million people across 18 states, including Borno, Adamawa, and Bayelsa. The Nigeria Red Cross is preparing life-saving assistance for 200,000 people, but this number is expected to double as the floods worsen.In Niger, the worst flooding in a decade has affected 842,000 people across all eight regions. The Niger Red Cross is providing a holistic response, including sanitation facilities, cash grants, climate adaptation strategies, and protection for vulnerable communities.In all the affected countries, Red Cross and Red Crescent teams are providing emergency shelter, food, clean water, sanitation facilities, mosquito nets and cash grants, but with many roads becoming inaccessible due to flooding, the response is a race against time.In addition to immediate relief, the IFRC is working with Red Cross teams in Chad, South Sudan, Niger and Nigeria on long-term resilience programmes and climate adaptation strategies. Efforts will focus on rebuilding homes with climate-resilient infrastructure, improving sanitation, and restoring agricultural capacity to safeguard food security and protect vulnerable communities.Dr Ben Adinoyi, IFRC Head of Delegation, Country Cluster Delegation for the Central African Republic and Chad: “These are not just one-time events. What we are witnessing is a growing, recurrent tragedy. This cycle of extreme weather is becoming more frequent due to the climate crisis. Beyond saving lives during this crisis, Red Cross is matching long-term climate resilience strategies to protect vulnerable families from climate shocks.”The IFRC has launched an emergency appeal for CHF 8 million to assist over 385,000 of the most vulnerable people across seven severely impacted provinces in Chad. In addition, the IFRC is initiating emergency appeals for Niger (CHF 8 million), and Nigeria (CHF 10 million) to support both immediate relief and long-term operational work. South Sudan is also scaling up their life-saving relief activities.As part of its Disaster Relief Emergency Fund (DREF) for flood response, the IFRC has already contributed CHF 231,293 to Nigeria, CHF 1 million to Chad, CHF 309,523 to Niger, and CHF 943,271 to Sudan.For more information or to request an interview, contact: [email protected]  In Nairobi: Susan Nzisa Mbalu: +254 733 827 654In Geneva: Tommaso Della Longa: +41 79 708 43 67 Hannah Copeland: +44 7535316633  

IFRC saddened by yet another killing of Sudanese Red Crescent volunteer in East Darfur State, Sudan

The IFRC is deeply saddened to announce the tragic loss of Sudanese Red Crescent Society (SRCS) volunteer, Mr Sabeil Ibrahim Adam on 26 August 2024. Sabeil lost his life while providing first aid services in Eldein town, East Darfur State. He was among the dedicated volunteers supporting El-Daein teaching hospital. Since the conflict in Sudan began in mid-April last year, eight volunteers from the Sudanese Red Crescent have tragically lost their lives. The IFRC extends its heartfelt condolences to the family, Sudanese Red Crescent Society, friends, and colleagues of Sabeil Ibrahim Adam. The protection of humanitarian workers is a fundamental obligation. We reiterate our call for the protection of humanitarian workers and implore all parties to respect international humanitarian law. The loss of our staff and volunteers underscores the risks faced by those delivering vital humanitarian assistance in conflict zones. 

IFRC saddened by the killing of two Sudanese Red Crescent volunteers in Sennar State, eastern Sudan

The IFRC is deeply saddened to confirm the deaths of two Sudanese Red Crescent Society (SRCS) volunteers, Babiker Fadl Al-Mawli on 5 July 2024, and Aldow Jaber Ali on 12 July 2024.Both volunteers were tragically killed in the line of duty in Sennar State. Since the conflict in Sudan began in mid-April last year, the Sudanese Red Crescent has lost six volunteers.The IFRC extends its deepest condolences to the families, friends, and SRCS colleagues of Babiker Fadl Al-Mawli and Aldow Jaber Ali. Protecting humanitarian workers is both a legal and moral obligation.We reiterate our call for the protection of humanitarian workers and urge all parties to respect international humanitarian law. The loss of our staff and volunteers is a stark reminder of the dangers faced by humanitarian workers in conflict zones.Visit our In memoriam page to homage their service and their sacrifice.

Regional Population Movement - Sudan Crisis

Sudan Crisis

IFRC appeals for safe access to address growing needs of Sudanese refugees at Ethiopia-Sudan border

Addis Ababa/Nairobi/Geneva, 12 June 2024 – The International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC) and the Ethiopian Red Cross Society (ERCS) urgently call for safe and unhindered humanitarian access to thousands of vulnerable Sudanese refugees near the Metema border point in Ethiopia.Since late April 2023, the Metema and Kumruk entry points have seen people, including Ethiopian returnees, seeking refuge from the ongoing crisis in Sudan. Since the onset of the conflict, the Ethiopian Red Cross Society has been at the forefront of providing humanitarian assistance, delivering psychological first aid, emergency medical services, water, high-energy biscuits, and health promotion initiatives. However, operational, security, and resource challenges significantly hinder these efforts.“Despite our concerted efforts, major challenges persist, including safety and security threats, transport access issues, and insufficient supplies of food, water, and sanitation materials,” said Mohamed Mukhier, IFRC Regional Director for Africa. “These challenges impede our ability to provide the necessary support to the affected communities. Our staff and volunteers are ready and willing to provide assistance, but we need safe and unhindered humanitarian access to carry out our lifesaving work effectively.”Ethiopia now hosts over one million refugees, making it the second-largest refugee-hosting country in Africa, many of whom have fled brutal conflict, leaving everything behind, and are extremely traumatized. There is a need for more support to meet the mounting needs of the refugees, including potable water, food, non-food items, and health and wellbeing facilities at entry points and within the camps. Additionally, support is needed to address the concerns of those protesting for better and more humane conditions in the camps.Paula Fitzgerald, IFRC Head of Country Cluster Delegation for Ethiopia & Djibouti, stressed the gravity of the situation, stating, “Without immediate and sustained support, their situation will worsen. We urgently need resources to improve living conditions for displaced people until a durable solution is found. We call on all parties to come together for the sake of humanity and urge global support for our emergency appeals to help affected communities cope with this crisis.”The IFRC renews its call for financial support, as the Sudan conflict remains one of the most underfunded operations globally. The Emergency Appeal to support the Sudan Red Crescent Society is underfunded, with only 18 percent of the required funds raised. Similarly, a regional population movement appeal to help National Societies in Egypt, Chad, South Sudan, Central African Republic, Ethiopia, and Libya support people displaced from Sudan is only 12 percent funded.For more information or to request an interview, please contact: [email protected] Nairobi: Susan Nzisa Mbalu, +254 733 827 654In Geneva: Mrinalini Santhanam, +41 76 381 50 06

Statement: IFRC mourns death of another Sudanese Red Crescent volunteer killed in the line of duty

With great sadness, the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC) confirms the death of Bashir Shuaib, a volunteer with the Sudanese Red Crescent Society (SRCS).Bashir was killed while on official first aid duties with the SRCS on 23 May. We send our deepest condolences to his family and colleagues.Bashir Shuaib is the third SRCS volunteer to have died while on duty over the last two months. His death brings to 21 the number of Red Cross and Red Crescent volunteers and staff killed while on duty worldwide this year.The IFRC strongly condemns violence and demands humanitarian workers be respected and protected under all circumstances. They are #NotATarget.

Statement: IFRC condemns the killing of a Sudanese Red Crescent volunteer

The International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC) confirms, with great sadness, the killing of Fadul Daw El-Bait Abdallah, a volunteer with the Sudanese Red Crescent Society. According to reports, Fadul Daw El-Bait Abdallah was shot on 11 May while working with his team to collect humanitarian data in the Abu Haraz area of south-eastern Sudan. He passed away on 12 May. A second volunteer was beaten during the incident.The IFRC strongly condemns this violence and asserts that humanitarian workers must be respected and protected under all circumstances. We extend our deepest condolences to Fadul’s family and colleagues.Since the beginning of the year, twenty IFRC network members have died globally, while performing their vital humanitarian duties. This violence must end. They are #NotATarget.

Statement: IFRC mourns the death of another Sudanese Red Crescent volunteer

With deep sorrow, the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC) confirms the death of Muhand AbdElrahman, the social welfare officer of the Dar Elsalam unit of the Sudanese Red Crescent Society (SRCS).Muhand was shot and killed on 22 May when entering the SRCS office in Khartoum Sharg Elniel, where he was helping to coordinate other volunteers running an ongoing relief operation. We send our heartfelt condolences to Muhand AbdElrahman’s family and colleagues. Muhand AbdElrahman is the fourth SRCS volunteer to have died while on duty over the last two months, and the second in just twodays. His death brings to 22 the number of Red Cross and Red Crescent volunteers and staff killed while on duty worldwide this year. The IFRC strongly condemns violence and demands humanitarian workers be respected and protected under all circumstances. They are #NotATarget.

Untold stories: Behind the headlines, hoping for the best while preparing for the worst

Since the escalation of hostilities between Israel and Palestine in October 2023, the Egyptian Red Crescent has delivered nearly 18,000 truck loads of medical supplies, food, and other goods into Gaza. ThePalestine Red Crescent Society, meanwhile, continues to provide emergency health services and coordinate the receipt and delivery of the aid.The process has not always been smooth.Aid deliveries were often blocked or delayed. But ultimately, thousands of shipments were able to get through. The Egyptian Red Crescent’s ability to scale up rapidly and respond effectively is largely due to its experience with supporting thousands of people who fled violence in neighboring Sudan.“In the case of the Egyptian Red Crescent, there were many learnings taken from the response to the population movement from Sudan last April,”saysDr. Hosam Faysal, regional head of the IFRC’s Health, Disasters, Climate and Crises (HDCC) Unit in the MENA region. “The learnings were about what the logistics system requires in each case, and how to build it quickly and scale it according to the needs of the response”.But the crisis today in the Middle East is also posing many new challenges, according to Lotfy S. Gheith, head of operations of the Egyptian Red Crescent Society.“We are facing a very different crisis from previous ones,”Gheith says. “We are used to working in Gaza, but now the situation is unpredictable, and we do not know how situations can escalate from one moment to the next, as has been happening.“This operation is a challenge, because we are sending trucks with humanitarian aid, which we have increased significantly. But it is not enough for the great, urgent needs of the population.”The making of an emergency responseThis is one side of the humanitarian equation that is often not told. It’s the story of what is done behind the scenes, before a crisis, to ensure the response is effective because it fits the local situation, culture and dynamics.The Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region, renowned for its intricate geopolitical dynamics, vast and diverse areas and cultures, is also a region grappling with some of the world's most daunting humanitarian challenges.MENA National Societies operate within this complex and ever-evolving context, navigating a wide range of challenges that span from civil unrest and violence to extreme weather — such as heatwaves, droughts and flooding — as well as technological hazards like the massive explosion that rocked Beirut in 2020.Getting readyNone of this would be possible without prior preparation by the National Societies. In order to provide an effective response, National Societies need to work on their response mechanisms.This means training staff and volunteers, going through simulations, building the capacity around contingency planning, as well as looking into learnings that can be gathered from other emergencies.The Lebanese Red Cross, for example, has several overlapping crises to deal with: the consequences of the August 4, 2020 explosion, the internal economic crisis, the Syrian refugee crisis, and now the conflict in Gaza.About this latest crisis, the National Society already had the mandate from the authorities to provide emergency medical services. The National Society could then improve its readiness by prepositioning stocks, increasing the alert level within their own Emergency Medical Services stations, and mobilizing more staff and volunteers to be ready for deployment.“We saw how it paid off when the escalation started in the south and the Lebanese Red Cross was immediately ready to respond and provide support to the affected and displaced population,”says Faysal.“[The Lebanese Red Cross] was indeed the only trusted entity to access the south to evacuate the wounded,”he adds. “All this has been possible through contingency planning, coordination, and the availability of resources”.In the case of Syria, the National Society is developing different scenarios in the event of an escalation of the conflict. As the context in Syria is one of protracted crises, the Syrian Arab Red Crescent Society mainly envisions the work it will have to undertake in case there is a need to increase the evacuation of wounded or affected populations.Its contingency plan includes protective measures for staff and volunteers when accessing risk areas, preparing to have more ambulances ready for evacuations, and carrying out more maintenance work to ensure the availability of these ambulances.TheJordan Red Crescent , meanwhile, is aiming to prepare for the potential evacuation of wounded people from the West Bank to Jordan for medical treatment. The Jordan Red Crescent has its own hospital, so its aim is to enhance medical services in order to receive and accommodate those in need for treatment.A need for more investmentThe MENA region has also been hit recently by several disasters, such as the earthquakes in Syria and Morocco, which left thousands of people dead and wreaked devastation in both countries.In the case of Morocco, the National Society had been working for several years on preparedness activities, updating its contingency plans and conducting simulation exercises with local authorities, as well as having a very clear and defined contingency plan at the national level.“The National Society has a well-defined and comprehensive contingency plan, and that's not something we see very often,” says Faysal. “It is very impressive. It includes coordination with other authorities and how to activate [the plan] at the national level”.Nevertheless, it is still necessary to develop and maintain sustainable actions and resources to ensure that National Societies respond adequately to crises and disasters.“In general, unfortunately, we see that in most cases resources only will be available when the emergency is in media headlines,”, Faysal adds.In response to this concern, the IFRC developed a multi-year programme on earthquake preparedness for eight countries in the region, using a multi-hazard approach. But, says Faysal, they received no support from partners and donors.“So, when the earthquake hit, we were in the same situation as we were in Syria [following the earthquake there in February 2023], with no considerations for us to be better prepared”, he says. “This is not about putting pressure on partners, because it's not just about resources, but also about availability and technical engagement.”This is why it’s critical to continually highlight the need for preparation, behind the scenes, before disaster strikes. Krystell Santamaria,Disaster Risk Management Coordinator forIFRCMENA Region, puts it this way: “We must continue to invest in preparedness, to ensure that resources are sustainable: Preparedness efforts must be updated cyclically and maintained over time, to guarantee that National Societies can respond effectively to the growing crises in the Mena region. This is the challenge”.By Olivia Acosta

IFRC condemns killing of Sudanese Red Crescent volunteer while on duty

The International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC) confirms the killing of Hossam El-Din Awad Mohamed Khalifa, a volunteer from the Sudanese Red Crescent Society, in Tuti Island, Khartoum State, on 10 April while on duty. Reports indicate that Hossam was fatally shot while he and other volunteers were providing first aid services during the Eid prayer. Eight others were injured in the incident.The IFRC strongly condemns this violence and asserts that healthcare workers must be respected and protected under all circumstances. We extend our deepest condolences to Hossam’s family and colleagues.Since the beginning of the year, nineteen IFRC network members have died while performing their vital humanitarian duties. This violence must end. They are #NotATarget.

Sudan: 'the most difficult year' after outbreak of conflict

One year after the outbreak of violence in Sudan that killed thousands of people and displaced as many as 8.6 million others, the volunteers and staff of the Sudanese Red Crescent Society (SRCS) are still working around the clock with limited resources to meet massive humanitarian needs.Wajdan Hassan Ahmed has been volunteering with her National Society for 16 years. She describes the 12 months following 15 April 2023 – when residents of the capital Khartoum woke to the terrifying sound of gunfire and explosions – as the most difficult year of her life.“The stories I experienced at the beginning of the war – the evacuations of people disfigured by bomb shrapnel, the stories of fathers who had lost their daughters, mothers who had lost their children, parents who lost their whole family… all these stories have stayed with me, and I cannot forget them,” she said.Psychosocial supportAs well as helping to evacuate people and bring them to safety far away from the fighting, Wajdan and her Red Crescent colleagues have been providing much-needed psychosocial support as well as food, water, and information.Many families were separated in the panic caused by the violence, and the resulting displacement within and outwith Sudan has pushed people far away from their loved ones. The Sudanese Red Crescent’s Restoring Family Links service is still helping to connect and reunite them.“We’re working hard to reunite families who have [been separated from] their children,” Wajdan said. “Some are aged seven to ten, and others of different ages.”Health clinicsSRCS teams have also been operating both fixed and mobile health clinics, helping at-risk people to get the care they need, wherever they may be. An estimated 80 per cent of Sudan’s healthcare facilities have stopped functioning since the crisis began, putting intense pressure on existing community-based Red Crescent health services.As a trusted neutral and impartial organization with thousands of highly trained volunteers and a permanent presence in communities in all 18 States, the SRCS has been at the forefront of the response during this past year. Around 4,000 volunteers have been directly involved in the emergency response.The IFRC had been working closely with SRCS and the ICRC long before the start of the conflict and will continue to do so for as long as people are in need. Many partner Red Cross and Red Crescent National Societies have also given support, resources and personnel to enhance the response operations. These include National Societies from Denmark, Germany, the Netherlands, Norway, Qatar, Spain, Sweden , Switzerland, and Türkiye.UnderfundedAnEmergency Appealwas launched by IFRC in support of the Sudan Red Crescent Society, although this appeal remains underfunded.A regional population movement appeal was also launched to help National Societies in Egypt, Chad, South Sudan, Central African Republic, Ethiopia and Libya to support people displaced from Sudan.Both appeals are critical in providing aid and relief to those affected by the ongoing crisis in Sudan and the surrounding region. More funding is needed to meet the urgent needs of these vulnerable populations.Call to actionThe IFRC and the Sudanese Red Crescent are calling upon all parties in Sudan to reflect on the humanitarian challenges that the conflict has posed. Despite the support that has been mobilized — around 10 per cent of the total required — nothing will be able to fill these gaps if the root causes are not addressed.The Red Cross and Red Crescent network calls upon all parties to come together for the sake of humanity and for the people, including children, who are suffering due to this ongoing conflict. And it calls on people around the world to support the critical emergency appeals that will help us ensure that affected communities and families can overcome this crisis, now entering its second year.

International Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement urges support for conflict victims: 'We cannot let Sudan become another forgotten crisis'

8 April 2024, Port Sudan/Nairobi/Geneva - One year of conflict in Sudan is taking a devastating human toll. Over 8 million people have been displaced, and tens of thousands have been killed or wounded. The acute shortages of essential resources such as food, water and fuel, along with a seriously degraded healthcare system, are just some of the terrible consequences of the fighting.The Sudanese Red Crescent Society (SRCS) is at the forefront of the Red Cross and Red Crescent (RCRC) Movement’s efforts to ensure that Sudanese civilians receive the humanitarian protection and assistance they desperately need.“We have mobilized 4,000 volunteers from across the country to provide first aid and help evacuate the wounded. Our staff and volunteers distribute food and essential items, provide psychological support, and search for the missing,” says Aida Al-Sayed Abdullah, Secretary-General of the SRCS. “We urge the international community to increase their support to help us meet the urgent needs of the communities trapped in the conflict. We cannot let Sudan become another forgotten crisis.”The International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC), the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC), and nine participating national societies (Danish Red Cross, German Red Cross, Netherlands Red Cross, Norwegian Red Cross, Qatar Red Crescent, Spanish Red Cross, Swedish Red Cross, Swiss Red Cross, and Turkish Red Crescent) have been supporting and working alongside SRCS to protect and support people affected by the ongoing conflict and natural disasters across the country.SRCS, with its partners, has been pivotal in delivering essential medical aid to hospitals, offering relief to displaced people and their host communities, and reuniting families separated by turmoil—facilitating crucial phone conversations among separated family members. Through its key access across the country, SRCS has been able to provide the most needed support to thousands affected.Beyond immediate assistance, the Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement contribution to the response extends to financial andmaterial support to SRCS, alongside providing technical advice and strengthening capacity- building.The IFRC launched a Federation-wide Emergency Appeal seeking 60 million Swiss Francs to support the SRCS business continuity as well as to scale up its life-saving humanitarian response in the country. The IFRC has also launched a Regional Population Movement seeking 42 million Swiss Francs to support humanitarian responses and activities of the National Societies in the neighboring countries of Egypt, Chad, South Sudan, Central African Republic (CAR), Ethiopia and Libya.The Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement calls on all state and non-state armed carriers involved in the conflict to follow their obligations under international humanitarian law, which is designed to protect ordinary people and those who can no longer fight. When homes, hospitals, and schools are damaged, and people who are not part of the fight are hurt, it not only causes immediate harm but also makes it much harder for communities to heal and come together after the conflict.The Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement is committed to providing protection and life-saving relief to the people suffering the horrors of the ongoing conflict. It urges, however, that more funding is needed to sustain the SRCS operations in the year ahead.For more information, please contact:Nawal Hassan, SRCS, Tel: +249 91 265 6872 [email protected] Nzisa Mbalu, IFRC Africa Regional Office, Tel: +254 733 827 654, [email protected] Hezam, ICRC Sudan, Tel: +249 100 999 477 , [email protected]