Sudan faces severe malnutrition crisis amid supply shortages

In Sudan, a hospital is facing a dire situation as medics struggle to care for malnourished children. At Alban Jadeed Hospital, located in the capital's war-torn area, mothers and their toddlers are receiving urgent medical attention. The ongoing conflict has caused severe shortages of food and medical supplies. The war began in April 2023 due to a power struggle between the army and paramilitary forces. This conflict has left millions suffering from acute hunger. According to the United Nations, Sudan is experiencing one of the worst humanitarian crises in the world, with half of its 50 million residents facing food insecurity. Doctors are forced to ration therapeutic milk and other critical supplies. In 2023, more than 14,000 children under five were admitted for severe acute malnutrition to Alban Jadeed Hospital. Sadly, only 600 of these children were found to be at a normal weight. Aid deliveries to the capital have been blocked by the fighting, leading to skyrocketing prices for food and other essentials. A significant reduction in U.S. aid funding is expected to worsen the crisis, impacting support for aid agencies and community kitchens. The hospital has reported a lack of both food and crucial medications like antibiotics. As the conflict continues, families struggle both to find and afford basic necessities, putting many lives at risk.