A humanitarian crisis unfolds in Sudan, where displaced families are reportedly consuming leaves and charcoal for survival after fleeing violence at the Zamzam camp. The Norwegian Refugee Council highlights alarming tales of suffering and death during their harrowing journey to Tawila.
Desperate Measures: Sudanese Families Resort to Eating Charcoal and Leaves Amid Crisis
Desperate Measures: Sudanese Families Resort to Eating Charcoal and Leaves Amid Crisis
Aid agencies report horrifying accounts of starvation and violence as displaced Sudanese flee to safety.
Sudanese families are resorting to extreme measures, consuming leaves and even charcoal to stave off hunger after being forced to escape a violent attack on the Zamzam camp near el-Fasher, according to reports from aid agencies. Noah Taylor, head of operations at the Norwegian Refugee Council, spoke with the BBC's Newsday programme, revealing the dreadful conditions faced by those fleeing the conflict.
Many individuals have started their arduous 40km journey from Zamzam to Tawila under "blistering" conditions, where they face a severe lack of food and water. "We've heard stories of people dying of thirst and exhaustion," noted Taylor, who emphasized the grim reality, where bodies litter the roads between the two locations.
Among the harrowing stories shared, one involved a girl who traveled alone from el-Fasher. She suffered horrific abuse during her journey and succumbed to her injuries upon arrival in Tawila. The ongoing conflict in Sudan’s Darfur region has led to a deepening humanitarian crisis, as the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) continue to clash with the army.
The attack on Zamzam camp, where many had sought refuge for over two decades, has left thousands in peril. The RSF claims its assault was justified, but it denies allegations of war crimes. The North Darfur Health Minister confirmed to Newsday that the Zamzam camp was "completely destroyed."
Currently, Tawila is struggling to accommodate the influx of approximately 130,000 to 150,000 newcomers, with scant resources available to meet their needs. Reports indicate that as families reach their destination, they recount stories of violence, lost homes, and an ongoing battle for survival.
