FAO launches flash appeal for $123 million to support food security in Sudan

11 September 2023 (QNA) – The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) today launched an appeal for $123 million in emergency funding under an emergency response plan to support food security in Sudan.

The plan builds on its work to address severe vulnerabilities resulting from ongoing clashes between Sudan's military and the Rapid Support Forces (RSF), to address growing food insecurity in the country, and to emergency treatment packages.

The Emergency Response Plan also aims to provide families working in agriculture, pastoralism and fishing with the essentials they need to continue producing and feed their members and communities.

"Millions of people across Sudan are fighting a battle for survival as the food security crisis worsens," FAO said, noting that the expected support will contribute to meeting the cereal needs of at least 13 million and up to 19 million people for the 2023 season.

FAO warned of the gravity of the escalating food crisis in Sudan, according to the latest Integrated Food Security Phase projections, noting that more than 20.3 million people, representing more than 42 percent of the country's population, suffer from high levels of acute food insecurity.

Since April 15, violent and large-scale clashes between the Sudanese army forces and the Rapid Support Forces have continued in different areas of Sudan, which have so far resulted in the death of about 5,000 people and the displacement of more than 4 million, whether inside Sudan or to neighboring countries, according to UN reports.