A United Nations inter-agency convoy led by the World Food Programme (WFP), UNICEF, and UNDP has successfully reached Dilling and Kadugli in South Kordofan, delivering life-saving humanitarian assistance to over 130,000 people. This marks the first major aid delivery to the area in three months, addressing critical shortages that have persisted in these communities.
The convoy included 15 WFP trucks, 7 UNICEF trucks, and 4 UNDP trucks, carrying essential food, medical, nutrition, health, WASH, and education supplies. WFP transported over 700 metric tons of food to support nearly 70,000 people, including specialized nutritious food for 21,000 mothers and children to prevent malnutrition. UNICEF delivered lifesaving supplies for 40,000 children and their families, covering nutrition, health, education, and WASH needs. UNDP provided 70 metric tons of medical supplies, including five months’ worth of HIV, TB, and malaria medications from the Global Fund, alongside other critical medicines.
Dilling and Kadugli have been largely cut off from humanitarian aid for more than two years, leaving residents with severe shortages of food, healthcare, and other essential services. UNICEF Representative Sheldon Yett emphasized that the convoy restores access to critical treatment for children suffering from severe malnutrition and ensures the continuation of essential services in the region.
Hostilities and insecurity along the main Al Obeid–Dilling–Kadugli route had delayed the convoy for over 40 days, forcing it to navigate a longer, off-road detour. WFP acting Country Director Makena Walker highlighted that the successful delivery demonstrates the importance of keeping humanitarian routes open and predictable to reach communities in need.
UN agencies stressed the need for sustained, safe, and predictable access to prevent further deterioration of the humanitarian situation. UNDP Resident Representative Luca Renda noted that while the arrival of medicines provides immediate relief, continued support for national systems is essential to maintain regular deliveries across Sudan despite ongoing conflict.
The UN has called on all parties to respect international humanitarian law and ensure unimpeded access to all civilians in need, underscoring the urgency of maintaining humanitarian corridors to save lives in South Kordofan.
