Khartoum, Sudan – (African Boulevard News) – Sudan has seen a shocking number of deaths and injuries amongst children in recent weeks, the United Nations has said. According to reports, since the conflict began on April 15, there have been 190 children killed and 1,700 children injured in the fighting.
The UN has called the number of child casualties “frighteningly large” and has condemned all parties involved in the conflict for failing to protect the country’s most vulnerable citizens. “There can be no justification for these appalling attacks on children,” a spokesperson for the UN stated.
Children have been caught in the crossfire of fighting between government forces and rebels, particularly in the Darfur region. The country has been in turmoil since the overthrow of former president Omar al-Bashir in 2019, with various factions fighting for control of the country.
The UN has stated that children are increasingly being targeted and used as pawns in the conflict. “Children are not soldiers and should never be treated as such,” the spokesperson continued. “The impact of this violence on children is devastating and will affect them for years to come.”
The situation in Sudan has become so dire that many aid organizations have been forced to suspend their operations due to the violence. This has left many vulnerable people without access to essential services such as food, water and healthcare.
The UN has called for an immediate ceasefire and for all parties to prioritize the protection of civilians, particularly children. “We urge all parties to the conflict to immediately cease all hostilities and come to the negotiating table in good faith,” the spokesperson said.
The international community has also been urged to do more to help the people of Sudan, who are experiencing one of the worst humanitarian crises in the world. “The people of Sudan need our support now more than ever,” the spokesperson added.
As the conflict in Sudan continues, it is imperative that all parties involved take action to protect the country’s most vulnerable citizens. The international community must also come together to provide aid and support to those affected by the violence. Only through collective action can the people of Sudan begin to rebuild their lives and their country.