Rédaction Africa Links 24 with umajulius
Published on 2024-03-19 10:16:18
Since the eruption of war in Sudan in mid-April 2023, attacks on healthcare institutions and staff have significantly increased, resulting in the loss of many lives and the destruction of valuable hospitals. A paper on health and conflict titled “Implications of the Sudan War on Healthcare Workers and Facilities: A Health System Tragedy” highlights the impact of these attacks.
According to the paper, there have been 60 reported attacks on health facilities in Sudan, with many of them being occupied by different sides of the conflict. The assaults by the Rapid Support Forces and the Sudanese Armed Forces on healthcare facilities and personnel have been ongoing since the start of the armed conflict. These attacks have resulted in the displacement of approximately 6.6 million individuals within and outside of Sudan, with a death toll exceeding 12,190.
Medical staff have also been targeted, with over 200 violations recorded across the country, leading to the deaths of 38 healthcare workers. This has caused a severe shortage of staff in the few functioning facilities, as remaining health workers fear for their safety. The targeting of healthcare facilities is a common occurrence in armed conflicts, leading to further destruction of the healthcare system and a lack of access to medical care for the public.
The World Health Organization reported that 70% of hospitals and medical centers in Khartoum were out of service six months after the conflict began, with 20% of medical institutions in non-engagement areas severely affected. By October 31, 2023, there had been 60 verified attacks on healthcare facilities in conflict areas, resulting in the deaths of at least 34 people. Ambulances have also been targeted, preventing the transportation of patients in need of medical attention.
In one instance on August 14, 2023, six ambulances were attacked by military forces in Khartoum. Additionally, the Sudanese military reportedly bombed the Doctors Hospital in Khartoum, destroying the building and its medical equipment. From January to October 2023, there were at least 222 assaults on the healthcare system in Sudan, resulting in the deaths of 38 healthcare workers and the damage of health facilities at least 49 times.
These attacks have severely impacted the healthcare providers’ ability to care for patients, maintain staffing levels, and hindered the public’s access to healthcare services. The paper calls for adherence to international humanitarian laws to protect civilians and infrastructure, emphasizing the importance of international health organizations in restoring and sustaining vital healthcare services.
It also urges for a ceasefire, the restoration of healthcare services, and the provision of a safe working environment for healthcare workers. International collaboration and financial support are crucial in rebuilding the healthcare system in Sudan and ensuring that the public can access essential medical care.
Read the original article on Sudan Tribune
