The Sudanese government has suspended its participation in the Integrated Food Security Phase Classification (IPC) system, just ahead of the release of a report expected to reveal a significant spread of famine across the country.
The move could hinder efforts to address what is one of the world’s most severe hunger crises.
In a letter dated 23 December, Sudan’s agriculture minister announced the decision, accusing the IPC of “issuing unreliable reports that undermine Sudan’s sovereignty and dignity.”
The IPC, a global hunger-monitoring body, is set to release findings on Tuesday indicating that famine has already affected five areas in Sudan and could extend to 10 regions by May.
A briefing document seen by reporters described the crisis as an “unprecedented deepening and widening of the food and nutrition crisis,” driven by ongoing conflict and restricted humanitarian access. The IPC declined to comment on Sudan’s withdrawal.
The decision has drawn criticism from humanitarian organisations. A leader of an NGO operating in Sudan, speaking anonymously, warned that the withdrawal undermines efforts to assist millions suffering from extreme hunger.
“Withdrawal from the IPC system won’t change the reality of hunger on the ground,” the NGO leader said. “But it does deprive the international community of its compass to navigate Sudan’s hunger crisis. Without independent analysis, we’re flying blind into this storm of food insecurity.”
Sudanese officials at the United Nations did not respond to requests for comment.
The IPC is an independent organisation funded by Western nations and overseen by 19 humanitarian and intergovernmental entities. It plays a critical role in monitoring global food insecurity, aiming to alert the international community to emerging food crises.
In Sudan, IPC analysts have collaborated with the government to evaluate data on food security. However, since the outbreak of civil war in April 2023, the system’s operations have been severely disrupted.
The conflict between Sudan’s army-backed government and the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) paramilitary has hindered data collection in areas controlled by both sides.
The IPC’s forthcoming report highlights the dire consequences of the war, poor humanitarian access, and the deepening crisis, leaving aid organisations and governments with limited tools to respond effectively.
Faridah Abdulkadiri
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