Public health in Sudan: priorities, challenges, and pathways to resilience

Despite the devastating consequences of the conflict in Sudan, the international response has been inadequate, requiring urgent advocacy for increased global support. As of December 2024, at least 122 health workers have been killed, and 90 arrested, with more than 100 ambulances and 400 vehicles and trucks reported looted, with partial or complete destruction of health institutions and medical supply stores. As of June 2024, the scale of food insecurity and malnutrition in Sudan has reached alarming levels due to the ongoing armed conflict. The United Nations' funding goal of $2.7 billion for 2024 was only 48% met. Therefore, there is an urgent need to advocate more effectively for Sudan and to draw the attention of the international community toward providing greater support. International organizations, particularly the World Health Organization (WHO), have provided critical support and coordination. However, the scale of the crisis far outpaces the response. Attacks on healthcare, disease outbreaks including cholera, and the collapse of the health system demand sustained international attention and funding. The study calls for: - Increased and sustained humanitarian funding - Protection of health workers and facilities under international humanitarian law - Improved coordination between international and local health actors - Advocacy for unhindered humanitarian access to all affected populations - Long-term investment in rebuilding Sudan's health infrastructure