Plan International concerned about safety of children and girls as conflict in Sudan escalates

The plight of families, especially children and girls, in Sudan remains uncertain amid ongoing conflict, increasing concern for their wellbeing and safety.

“We are devastated that children and their families continue to be caught up in these horrific clashes between armed groups . We hope the conflict will be resolved soon, to allow families who have been caught up in the conflict to receive support, recover and rebuild their lives,” said Mwape Mulumbi, Country Director, Plan International Sudan.

“The situation is very tense as fighting continues with an escalation of safety concerns for our staff and families. The increase in looting is extremely worrying around the residential area of Khartoum.”

With communication the greatest challenge, the extent to which children, especially girls, have been affected by the ongoing conflict is unclear.

As an international development and humanitarian organisation, Plan International is urgently calling for the protection of children from the conflict.

Plan International stands with the children and families across Sudan who have already experienced high levels of trauma, protection risks and hardship.

Children in Sudan should not grow up in fear of violence, and all parties involved in the conflict must prioritise the protection of civilians, and allow rescue and humanitarian personnel safe access, respecting international humanitarian law.

The next few days and weeks will be challenging for families whose lives have been turned over by this horrific conflict. Plan International is readying to respond to communities to offer psychosocial support, safe spaces for children, as well as referrals to trauma centres for families in need.

[ENDS]

Notes to editors/producers: Plan International Australia has Sudanese spokespeople in Melbourne (Plan International staff) available for comment and interviews, and spokespeople/staff in Sudan available for comment and interviews. B-roll and images available. Please contact [email protected] / 0452326549