United Nations : The United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) has said that the ongoing fighting in Sudan is putting thousands of pregnant women at risk. It has become too dangerous for pregnant women to step out of their homes for immediate medical care. The UNFPA estimates that there are 219,000 pregnant women in the capital of Khartoum, the epicenter of the violence, Xinhua news agency reported. Out of which 24,000 women are expected to be delivered in the coming weeks.
UNFPA said in a statement that violent clashes between the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) and the paramilitary Rapid Support Force since Saturday have made it extremely difficult for women to seek essential antenatal care, safe delivery services and care. Sudan’s healthcare system is also affected by the conflict. The violence in Khartoum has forced the closure of at least 20 hospitals. As per reports, 12 hospitals across the country are still functioning. But these too are likely to shut down soon as they grapple with power and water cuts and staff crunch.
Doctors, nurses and hospital staff are unable to go to work because of the fighting. UNFPA has warned that if the violence does not stop, the health system is in danger of being overwhelmed. Due to which there is a high risk of death of pregnant women and their unborn children. The agency said it is also concerned about the 3.1 million women and girls who face increased risks of life-threatening gender-based violence.
UNFPA reminds all parties to the conflict of their obligations under international humanitarian law. Also said that attacks on health care are a gross violation of international law and the right to health. The UN agency condemned the attacks on its staff. The agency expressed its utmost concern about the safety of its staff in Khartoum and other affected areas who are trapped inside their homes. He has now started stepping out of the house for water, food and essential medicines.
The current insecurity is said to be making the delivery of humanitarian aid nearly impossible. And this is the worst of times for the people of Sudan as the country is facing unprecedented needs. The agency said the UNFPA, together with UN Secretary-General António Guterres, called for respecting the humanitarian pause so that people can get food, water, medicine and health care.
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