A severe agricultural crisis is unfolding in Darfur, Sudan, as nineteen emergency rooms report a catastrophic failure of the current farming season. The crisis is attributed to drought and irregular rainfall, which have devastated crops across the region. According to Justice Africa Sudan (JAS), harvest losses are estimated to be around 90% in key sorghum-producing regions. This has raised fears of an impending famine, with over 75% of Sudanese experiencing acute food insecurity.
The agricultural emergency rooms had initially aimed to cultivate over 1,800 feddans during the rainy season, but due to limited resources and insufficient rainfall, the target was reduced to 1,100 feddans. Unfortunately, the intermittent rainfall resulted in poor crop germination, and the drought caused crops to fail in some cultivated areas. Jalal Eddin Abkar Yousif told Radio Dabanga that 2026 has been one of the worst years Sudan has experienced due to low rainfall and drought affecting large parts of the country.
The humanitarian crisis has forced thousands of families to flee their homes in search of food and shelter. Many have been displaced from Mershing to Tawila, Shangil Tobaya, and Nierteti, while others have crossed the border into Chad to escape hunger and loss of livelihoods. According to Adam Rijal, the official spokesperson for the General Coordination of Displaced Persons and Refugees in Darfur, approximately 538 families, comprising 3,227 people, arrived between 15 October and 6 November.
The situation is dire, with humanitarian needs increasing at an alarming rate. Justice Africa Sudan has called for an immediate and unconditional nationwide ceasefire, unhindered humanitarian access, and an adequately funded international emergency response to avert catastrophic loss of life. The organisation warns that continued hostilities risk causing avoidable loss of life, and an inclusive peace process is needed to address the crisis.
JAS documents human rights violations, supports civic space, and contributes to evidence-based research. Based on field assessments in key sorghum-producing regions, the organisation estimates harvest losses at approximately 90%. These regions traditionally supply staple food to over 70% of Sudan's population. The organisation urges the international community to secure unhindered humanitarian access, protect and monitor aid corridors, and provide an adequately funded emergency response.
The crisis has significant implications for the region, with over 75% of Sudanese experiencing acute food insecurity. Humanitarian assistance has declined significantly amid funding shortfalls and access restrictions. JAS calls for greater support for Sudanese civil society and local responders, who are critical in addressing the crisis.
The international community must act swiftly to address the crisis. Justice Africa Sudan's call for an immediate ceasefire, humanitarian access, and emergency response is critical to preventing a catastrophic famine. The organisation's efforts to document human rights violations and support civic space are also essential in promoting accountability and good governance in Sudan.
Key points
- 90% of crops have failed in key sorghum-producing regions of Darfur, Sudan.
- Over 75% of Sudanese are experiencing acute food insecurity.
- Justice Africa Sudan calls for an immediate ceasefire, humanitarian access, and emergency response to avert catastrophic loss of life.
