A study by the London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine indicates that the death toll from Sudan’s civil war is much higher than previously estimated, with over 61,000 deaths in Khartoum State alone. The research highlights preventable diseases and starvation as leading causes of death, while 25 million people require immediate food assistance amidst a significant humanitarian crisis. Despite international efforts for peace, the situation remains dire with ongoing violence and little indication of resolution.
A recent study conducted by the London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine has revealed that the death toll from the ongoing civil war in Sudan is significantly higher than previously estimated. The research indicates that over 61,000 individuals died in Khartoum State alone, highlighting a concerning increase in mortality rates since the conflict began in April 2023. Furthermore, violence has claimed more than 26,000 lives in the state, far exceeding official statistics reported by the Armed Conflict Location & Event Data (ACLED).
This study underscores the severity of the humanitarian crisis in Sudan, where millions face acute hunger and malnutrition. Notably, the leading causes of death in the conflict-affected areas stem from preventable diseases and starvation, with over 90% of deaths going unrecorded. The unique methodology of ‘capture-recapture analysis’ employed in this study allowed researchers to derive more accurate estimates by comparing and cross-referencing multiple data sources.
The repercussions of the civil war have compelled approximately 11 million people to flee their homes, with around 25 million—half of Sudan’s population—requiring urgent food assistance. In light of these distressing revelations, aid organizations, including Doctors Without Borders, have reported a surge in severe injuries among children and a dramatic rise in malnutrition cases. Maysoon Dahab, the study’s lead author, emphasized the importance of scaling up international aid efforts to alleviate the ongoing crisis and protect vulnerable populations.
Despite discussions led by international actors, including the U.S. Special Envoy to Sudan, Thomas Perriello, signs of a potential ceasefire remain elusive. Furthermore, recent geopolitical interventions, such as Russia’s veto of a United Nations resolution advocating for a ceasefire, continue to exacerbate the situation. Britain’s Foreign Secretary, David Lammy, condemned Russia’s actions, labeling them disgraceful and detrimental to efforts aimed at addressing the humanitarian disaster unfolding in Sudan.
The civil war in Sudan commenced in April 2023, driven by a struggle for power between the Sudanese army and the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces. The conflict has led to widespread devastation, resulting in tremendous challenges for humanitarian agencies attempting to provide assistance and gather accurate data regarding casualties and the impact of violence on the population. Existing data has often underestimated both the loss of life and the scale of the humanitarian crisis, necessitating detailed and innovative research methodologies to present a clearer picture of the true toll of the war.
The findings from the London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine illuminate the severe and escalating humanitarian crisis in Sudan, revealing a death toll far greater than previously acknowledged. The conflict has resulted in extensive casualties, with millions on the verge of famine. The international community’s response remains critical, as highlighted by calls for increased humanitarian efforts to address the dire needs of affected populations. Yet, amidst entrenched violence and political complexities, prospects for peace seem grim, underscoring the urgent need for coordinated global action to mitigate further suffering.
Original Source: www.voanews.com
