New famine risk haunts war-torn Sudan with El Niño-driven drought
SPY•Drought driven by El Niño is worsening crop and livestock losses in Sudan, where rainfall from July to September was the lowest in more than three decades. The WFP forecasts 350,000 more people will face severe hunger by the end of 2026 and 1.2 million more by August 2027.
1. Drought compounds hunger
An October 12 alert from the United Nations-backed IPC said the risk of famine was growing in conflict-affected areas, as drought compounded already dire conditions. Rainfall during the peak rainy season was the lowest in more than three decades nationwide, according to USGS data; North Darfur recorded its lowest level since 1984.
2. Harvests and livestock suffer
Farmers and traders in North Kordofan described shrivelled crops and emaciated cattle. One farmer estimated about 40% of land around Um Rawaba would produce no harvest, while a large-scale farmer in Gedaref said he expected about 25% of last year's crop. Sudan's agriculture minister said this year's harvest would be lower, but not significantly less than last year's.
3. Aid needs grow
The WFP forecasts 350,000 additional people will experience severe hunger by the end of 2026, rising to 1.2 million more by August 2027. As of October 17, it had $276 million for its Sudan operation, less than half of last year's budget, and said it needed another $134 million to address drought-related hunger. The agency has cut rations for people it can reach.
