Displaced by war, people in eastern Sudan urgently need food, water and shelter

The living conditions of displaced people in Kassala are extremely dire, marked by overcrowded shelters, limited access to food and clean water, and inadequate healthcare services. Since the end of December 2023, MSF teams have treated 2,126 patients for respiratory infections in the different gathering sites in the city.

While this is a common illness in the cold temperatures, it’s been made worse for people who have no choice but to sleep in shelters that do not sufficiently protect them from the cold and wind. 

Many rely on the generosity of host communities for necessities, heightening their vulnerability to disease and deprivation. The spectre of cholera, typhoid, and dysentery looms large, threatening the health of displaced people.

MSF provided basic healthcare services, sexual and reproductive healthcare, mental healthcare, and health promotion activities. Mobile clinics were sent to remote gathering sites, ensuring that essential medical care reached those who needed it. Between 11 February and 10 March, teams provided 2,545 medical consultations, and offered psychological first aid to 1,334 people in both group sessions and individual sessions.