Warnings of an impending food gap in South Darfur

Nyala – October 18, 2026 – Radio Dabanga: The head of the foundational National Humanitarian Access Commission, Ezz El-Din Al-Safi, warned of the onset of a food gap in South Darfur state, in light of scarce rainfall and indicators pointing toward a decline in agricultural production during the current season, as well as challenges facing pastures and livestock. In a meeting with the state's Civil Administration, he stated that initial indicators for the current agricultural season suggest the potential for a widespread food gap that could affect millions of people and livestock, noting that the commission is preparing to hold a conference on humanitarian issues, with the participation of partners and humanitarian organizations, aimed at coordinating efforts and addressing the situation before the crisis escalates. The meeting discussed the volume of expected humanitarian needs and urgent alternatives to secure food and water for humans and animals. Al-Safi explained that the coming phase requires focusing on four urgent priorities: providing food aid, securing pastures, providing water sources, establishing and equipping food storage facilities, and developing practical solutions and serious proposals to mitigate the potential effects of the crisis. Regarding precautionary measures, the Civil Administration in South Darfur confirmed that the scarcity of rain and declining rainfall rates represent worrying indicators that call for the preparation of a strict emergency plan and urgent on-the-ground implementation to ensure the food needs of citizens are met and to limit the repercussions of drought on livestock. It pointed out that the high population density characteristic of South Darfur, along with its vast livestock wealth, necessitates early action to confront the expected shortage of food and fodder, while working to provide additional water sources, expanding the cultivation of green fodder, and finding sustainable alternatives for pastures affected by the drought. As part of the precautionary measures, the Civil Administration revealed that actions have been taken to curb the smuggling of food grains outside the state, while emphasizing the urgent need to strengthen humanitarian aid and requesting the head of the National Humanitarian Access Commission to issue urgent appeals to the relevant authorities and international partners to provide relief, given that current aid is insufficient compared to the scale of growing needs. The Civil Administration stressed its commitment to facilitating and securing the work of humanitarian organizations, enabling them to reach those in need and perform their role in providing humanitarian services and assistance. The meeting concluded on the necessity of conducting an urgent field assessment to determine the volume of the food deficit and actual needs, implementing a post-harvest survey to estimate the volume of available production, as well as expanding the drilling of water wells, identifying suitable locations for food storage and fodder cultivation, and developing practical alternatives to face the expected shortage.