Millions of Sudanese who fled their homes since the fighting erupted in the country in 2023 have been suffering from a long-term humanitarian crisis, as no short-term schedule can be seen for their return home.
Nearly three years after the fighting first erupted, the civil war in Sudan continued to shape migration patterns across Africa. Millions of Sudanese have fled their homes, crossing into neighboring countries. including Chad, South Sudan, Egypt, Ethiopia, and the Central African Republic.
Sumaya Adam was forced to flee her home in Western Sudan in 2024, and she became separated from her family in the chaos. Today, she stays in Port Sudan, far in the east, but still alone, without her children.
"When we fled the fighting, everything happened very quickly. During the chaos, I lost contact with my two children. I still don't know where they are. Some people told me they may have crossed the border with others who were escaping. Every day I wait and pray that I will hear something about them," she said.
According to United Nations estimates, more than ten million people have been displaced, making it one of the largest displacement crises in the world.
Across Sudan's borders, the scale of displacement is transforming entire communities.
What began as temporary shelters and emergency camps are now slowly turning into semi-permanent settlements. The consequences are being felt far beyond Sudan.
Neighboring countries - many already dealing with economic challenges - are hosting large numbers of refugees.
Schools, health services, and food supplies are under growing strain, as authorities try to manage rapidly expanding communities.
"The continued movement of Sudanese civilians is beginning to reshape labor markets, informal economies, and political discussions across parts of the region," said Abdulemoniem Abuudrees, an independent analyst.
Aid agencies said the challenge now goes beyond immediate humanitarian relief.
As displacement drags on with no clear timeline for return, governments and international organizations are being forced to consider longer-term solutions for housing, education, and employment.
Without sustained international support, humanitarian officials warn that pressure on host communities could intensify, potentially leading to economic strain and social tensions in already fragile areas.
Displaced Sudanese people face long-term humanitarian crisis as chaos lasts
Displaced Sudanese people face long-term humanitarian crisis as chaos lasts
