Since April 15, 2023, Sudan's health situation has been significantly affected by the conflict, exacerbating the already fragile healthcare system nationwide. Hospitals and healthcare centers are under immense pressure, facing shortages of personnel, medications, and equipment, pushing the system to the brink of collapse.

 

The Sudanese American Physicians Association (SAPA) has played a vital role, aiding over 300,000 individuals in six Sudanese states over the past six months. It has positioned itself as the largest local medical aid organization in Sudan, utilizing its local and international networks to provide lifesaving support to Sudan during the ongoing crisis. Additionally, it taps into the expertise of Sudanese American physicians, offering specialized insights for program design, technical knowledge, and innovative solutions.

During the period from April to October 2023, SAPA directly supported over 300,000 beneficiaries.

Below are key highlights of their efforts:

Sudan's Dire Humanitarian Situation: The Reality

Since the conflict's outbreak, Sudan faces a dire humanitarian situation, with approximately 5.4 million displaced individuals and 24.7 million people—half the population—in need of humanitarian aid due to clashes between the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) and the Rapid Support Forces (RSF). On average, one million people have been displaced each month since the conflict began.

 

Navigating Challenges: SAPA's Adaptive Strategies

Delivering aid amid conflict presents challenges, including security risks, limited access, resource constraints, and damaged infrastructure. SAPA navigated these obstacles by adopting a coordinated, adaptive approach and forming strong partnerships with local organizations.

 

SAPA's Vision: Expanding Aid for Conflict-Affected Communities

SAPA aims to expand its ongoing programs in the upcoming months, prioritizing the needs of conflict-displaced individuals. This includes providing healthcare through mobile teams, supporting health facilities, and implementing WASH programs in IDP camps.

A Story of Hope

Meet Mr. Ilmad Asalaya (picture above), a dedicated volunteer in the White Nile State community, whose concern for children in Kosti's IDP camps drew SAPA's attention. These camps faced a severe outbreak of diarrheal diseases due to inadequate drinking water sources and sanitation facilities.

Responding to this critical situation in August and September 2023, SAPA's mission focused on installing a comprehensive water supply and sanitation system in 12 IDP camps. This involved setting up 15 water storage tanks with sewage systems, distributing 38 drinking water containers, and rehabilitating or establishing multiple toilets.

The project's goal was sustainable water safety to prevent cholera and other diarrheal diseases, benefitting 4,733 individuals in Kosti's IDP camps. As one of SAPA's initiatives in White Nile State, it significantly improved the community's well-being.

 

Photo Credits: SAPA 2023