Fighting deepens needs and fuels further displacement in Sudan

Ongoing conflict, displacement and funding shortages continue to deepen needs in Sudan, the UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) warned on Monday, underscoring the need for greater civilian protection.Key pointsRSF forces have encircled El Obeid, capital of North Kordofan, threatening a full-scale assault as civilians flee there for safety Fighting in West Darfur has displaced some 18,000 people from more than 20 villages in the past week alone, most fleeing across the border into Chad Funding shortfalls have forced the closure of three health facilities in Central Darfur, cutting off some 75,000 displaced people from essential care Sudan's $3 billion humanitarian appeal is only 40 per cent funded, with $1.2 billion received so far this year OCHA drew particular attention to the situation around El Obeid, capital of North Kordofan state, where insecurity continues to endanger civilians and drive displacement. People are flocking to the city and surrounding areas in search of safety and assistance. The rebel RSF militia have effectively encircled the town and are threatening a full-scale ground assault Providing water for thousandsDespite the challenging env...