A deadly cholera outbreak in Sudan’s capital, Khartoum, has killed 70 people in just two days, as the war-torn city struggles with the collapse of basic services.
Health authorities in Khartoum State reported 942 new infections and 25 deaths on Wednesday, following 1,177 cases and 45 deaths on Tuesday. The outbreak is compounding an already dire humanitarian situation amid ongoing conflict between the army and the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF).
The recent spike in infections follows drone strikes—blamed on the RSF—that destroyed critical water and electricity infrastructure in the capital. Although the army says it recently regained control of Khartoum from the RSF, the damage to the city has been extensive, with housing and healthcare services in ruins.
The federal health ministry confirmed 172 deaths from cholera in the past week alone, 90 percent of them in Khartoum State. While recovery rates in isolation centres stand at 89 percent, officials warn that deteriorating environmental conditions are accelerating the spread of the disease.
Sudan’s civil war, now in its second year, has displaced over 13 million people and left tens of thousands dead. According to the UN, it is the world’s worst humanitarian crisis, with up to 90 percent of hospitals in key conflict zones rendered non-functional.
Authorities continue to urge international aid and emergency support to stem the epidemic and restore basic healthcare services.
