World Food Program Sends Aid to Kordofan After Two-Year Absence

The World Food Program announced the arrival of humanitarian aid for the first time in two years to the cities of Delanj and Kadugli in South Kordofan, to support about 70,000 people, including children and mothers, after a long interruption due to violence and insecurity in the region.

Road Difficulties and Caravan Success

The caravan that transported the food aid faced significant challenges along the main road between Al-Obeid – Delanj – Kadugli, where workers had to stop for more than 40 days due to escalating violence, exposing local communities to further risks. Ultimately, the caravan managed to reach Delanj after navigating rough and difficult roads.

Statements from UN Officials

Sheldon Yett, UNICEF representative in Sudan, said: "The arrival of this caravan represents a vital lifeline for children who have been cut off from aid for a very long time."
For her part, Makena Walker, acting director of the World Food Program in Sudan, confirmed: "After weeks of delays and difficult detours, these life-saving supplies, including food aid, have finally reached Delanj and Kadugli. This shows what can be achieved when we are able to move even under extremely difficult conditions." She added: "Roads must remain open and predictable to ensure that aid reaches all communities, including those isolated for long periods."

The Humanitarian Situation in Kordofan

Assistance to Delanj and Kadugli has been cut off for more than 24 months, leading to severe shortages of food, medicine, and clean water, according to the United Nations. The report noted that more than 100,000 people have been displaced in the past three months due to escalating battles between the Sudanese army and Rapid Support Forces, which continued to expand after their control of the Darfur region last October.

The humanitarian situation in South Kordofan remains fragile, and the arrival of aid underscores the importance of keeping roads safe and open to ensure the continuation of vital relief for affected populations.