Why you should care about the WHO’s outcry over civilian killings in Sudan’s El Fasher tragedy

DCM Editorial Summary: This story has been independently rewritten and summarised for DCM readers to highlight key developments relevant to the region. Original reporting by WHO, click this post to read the original article.

The World Health Organization (WHO) strongly condemns the killing of over 460 patients and companions and the abduction of six health workers during a reported attack on Saudi Maternity Hospital in El Fasher on October 28. This attack, the fourth within a month on the only partially functioning hospital in the region, highlights the deteriorating crisis in North Darfur. Alongside this violence, hunger, disease, and lack of resources are pushing the local population farther into distress, as the region’s fragile health system collapses.

Since the conflict began, at least 46 health workers have been killed and 48 injured in El Fasher. Thousands of civilians are trapped without food, water, or medical care. Around 28,000 people have recently fled the town, with tens of thousands more expected to follow. Many of the displaced are women and unaccompanied children facing worsening conditions, including severe shortages of shelter, protection, and health services.

A cholera outbreak is adding to the crisis, with El Fasher reporting 272 suspected cases and 32 deaths this year alone. Across Darfur, over 18,000 suspected cholera cases and 662 deaths have been recorded. The lack of clean water and difficult security conditions are hampering disease surveillance and response efforts, while rising malnutrition—especially among children and pregnant women—is increasing vulnerability to disease.

Even with limited access, WHO and its partners are working to support the displaced with emergency medical supplies and care. Twenty tons of medicines and emergency kits are being moved to Tawila, while additional supplies are being fast-tracked from Chad. WHO is also coordinating medical efforts in reception sites and preparing for rapid health responses as more people arrive from El Fasher.

You are urged to note WHO’s call for an immediate ceasefire in El Fasher and across Sudan. The organization demands the protection of civilians and humanitarian workers and calls for safe, swift, and unrestricted access to provide crucial aid to those most in need.