TOKYO: Sudan’s Charge d’Affaires in Japan Ali Osman Mohamed is asking Japan to help with the worsening humanitarian crisis in his country, which has been caused by flooding and war.

“The humanitarian situation has reached alarming levels, exacerbated by heavy rains and widespread flooding,” Osman said. “Millions of people are now facing a devastating crisis, with an urgent need for assistance, as natural and man-made disasters converge.”

The flooding has not only displaced thousands, but has also led to the destruction of homes, infrastructure, and essential resources. In addition to the immediate threat to life, the floods have worsened the already fragile health situation, as access to clean water and sanitation is increasingly compromised.

“Given our longstanding friendship, we earnestly implore the Japanese government, the Japanese people, non-governmental organizations, and the private sector to extend assistance to alleviate the distress in Sudan,” he said.

The Humanitarian Aid Commission, in collaboration with local and international organizations, is mobilizing to provide immediate aid to the affected communities. However, the challenges are significant. The combination of flooding and ongoing war has created numerous logistical challenges.

“Despite Sudan’s government efforts to ease the humanitarian situation by opening all humanitarian corridors and routes – including the recent decision by the President of the Sovereignty Council General Abdel Fattah al Burhan Abdelrahman al-Burhan to reopen the Adre border crossing for three months – humanitarian support is still needed,” Osman said.

The war initiated by the Rapid Support Forces Militia in April 2023 has resulted in severe disruption of humanitarian delivery systems across the country.