Sudan’s sovereign council has extended the Adre border crossing with Chad for humanitarian aid delivery, critical as over 25 million people face hunger. The area, affected by conflict, poses increased famine risks. Despite governmental protests regarding possible weapon deliveries by the RSF, aid organizations have successfully moved substantial supplies through this crucial route, underscoring the ongoing need for effective humanitarian access.
On Wednesday, Sudan’s sovereign council announced the extension of the Adre border crossing with Chad to facilitate humanitarian aid deliveries into the Darfur and Kordofan regions. This corridor is deemed critical by humanitarian organizations, particularly as over 25 million individuals in Sudan are currently confronting severe food shortages, with some regions in imminent danger of famine due to the ongoing conflict between the Sudanese army and the Rapid Support Forces (RSF). Previously, the Adre crossing was closed by the army-controlled government in February but reopened for a three-month period in August amid concerns about access to food supplies. Recent governmental dissent has arisen surrounding the crossing, suggesting that it may enable the RSF to transport arms. Despite these concerns, it is worth noting that the RSF has control over the crossing, having taken the territory last year. Aid organizations have prepared for the possibility of a closure while prioritizing deliveries through the Adre route due to its efficiency compared to alternate routes from Port Sudan. Since its reopening, more than 300 aid trucks have delivered vital supplies for over 1.3 million people in Sudan. Recent actions include a convoy from the World Food Programme that delivered food to 12,500 individuals in the Zamzam camp, illustrating the pressing need for continued access to humanitarian aid in the region.
The Adre border crossing serves as a crucial passage for humanitarian aid in Sudan, especially amidst the ongoing humanitarian crisis exacerbated by conflict. With over 25 million people facing acute hunger in Sudan, the regions of Darfur and Kordofan are particularly vulnerable to famine. The conflict between Sudan’s army and the RSF has hindered food supply routes, prompting aid organizations to rely on strategic crossing points like Adre for effective aid delivery. This crossing had previously been closed due to governmental orders, reflecting the complex interplay of military control and humanitarian needs in the region.
The extension of the Adre border crossing is a vital development in addressing the severe humanitarian crisis in Sudan, particularly for the populations in Darfur and Kordofan. Despite concerns regarding potential misuse of the crossing by armed groups, the necessity of delivering aid to millions at risk of famine takes precedence. The ongoing administrative challenges underscore the need for alternative means of delivering humanitarian assistance in conflict-affected areas. Continued international attention and support are imperative to address the escalating crisis and ensure that vulnerable populations receive essential supplies in a timely manner.
Original Source: www.arabnews.com
