Despair In Zamzam Camp in Sudan.
By Counselor Ismail Haggana.
Camp Zamzam, North Darfur, is a shocking reflection of the deep grief and turmoil sweeping parts of Sudan; this crisis symbolizes the devastating impact of conflict and highlights the acute vulnerabilities faced by the Sudanese people, especially the innocent children caught in the crossfire of ongoing conflict in which they have no right to do so.
Reports from Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF) paint a grim picture of a camp suffering from severe acute malnutrition, with mortality rates no less than tragic. The fact that at least one child dies every two hours inside this camp due to malnutrition and lack of primary health care is a stark reminder of the urgency and scale of the crisis.
The alarming recurrence of child deaths in Zamzam camp, where up to 13 children die daily, exposes the catastrophic nature of the conditions.
Claire Nicollet of MSF described the situation as “absolutely catastrophic.” Children with severe acute malnutrition are at risk of dying within weeks without treatment, a treatment that is within our ability to provide only if they can access health facilities.
This dire situation in Zamzam camp is a bleak mirror reflecting Sudan’s profound challenges and urgent humanitarian needs. It underscores the urgent need for an immediate ceasefire, with which life-saving assistance can be effectively scaled up.
As a Sudanese, the crisis in Zamzam is not just news; it is a painful reality that affects my people. It is a call to the global community to bear witness and act to help avoid further loss of innocent lives. Let us unite to amplify calls for peace and mobilize a robust humanitarian response. Our collective efforts can and must make a difference.
In the face of this despair, our shared humanity requires us to work hard and non-stop.
Note: It was translated from Arabic by Ibrahim Ebeid.
February 21. 2024
