IPC alert: drought and war are increasing the risk of famine in Sudan's Darfur and Kordofan
12 October 2026
The UN-backed Integrated Food Security Phase Classification (IPC) issued a new alert on Monday 12 October 2026, warning that the risk of famine is growing in parts of Sudan.
A severe El Nino drought now covers more than half of Sudan, compounding war and displacement in Greater Darfur and Greater Kordofan.
A survey of two camps in Eastern Jebel Marra, South Darfur, found acute malnutrition among children at 38 and 30.8 per cent, above the famine threshold.
Greater Kordofan has seen more than 300,000 people forced from their homes since October 2025.
The IPC's Famine Review Committee said survey data is not sufficient for a full analysis but the evidence points to a rapidly worsening situation.
As of 8 October, less than half of the humanitarian appeal for Sudan had been funded.
In plain words
IPC Integrated Food Security Phase Classification — A global partnership that rates the severity of food insecurity and famine.
El Nino Periodic warming of the central Pacific — It alters rainfall worldwide and can cause drought in some regions.