Sudan's Healthcare Crisis Amid Ongoing Conflict

Since the outbreak of conflict in Sudan in April 2023, the country's healthcare system has faced a rapid and catastrophic collapse, exacerbated by decades of underinvestment. As of late 2025, an estimated 70-80% of health facilities in conflict-affected regions are non-operational. Major medical complexes in Khartoum have ceased functioning due to extensive damage, looting, and the flight of medical personnel. Only a few facilities, such as Al Nao Hospital in Omdurman, remain operational, relying on the dedication of individual healthcare workers amidst severe shortages of supplies.

Sudan’s war is wiping out healthcare, one hospital at a timeSudan’s women break ‘traditional rules’ to surviveSudan army says two-year RSF siege of key town broken

The humanitarian emergency has been compounded by a historic cholera outbreak, with over 120,000 suspected cases and more than 3,300 associated deaths reported nationwide. Additionally, dengue fever cases have surged, particularly in Khartoum, Al Jazirah, and Kassala, while malaria outbreaks persist due to the destruction of sanitation systems and overcrowded displacement sites.

Sudan’s war is wiping out healthcare, one hospital at a time

The war has severely impacted maternal and newborn health. In Al-Qadarif State, at least 109 women and 256 newborns died during childbirth in 2025, highlighting the lack of skilled birth attendants and essential medical supplies. Over two million babies have been born without reliable access to obstetric care, with health workers improvising under extreme conditions. Fatima, a midwife in a displacement camp, described delivering babies on plastic sheets with minimal resources, praying for the survival of mothers and infants.

Sudan’s war is wiping out healthcare, one hospital at a time

The conflict has triggered the world's largest and fastest-growing displacement crisis, with over 12.8 million people forced from their homes. Displacement continues to escalate, with significant movements reported from Kadugli in South Kordofan. The humanitarian situation is dire, with severe hunger reported in regions like Dilling, where the military has recently regained control from the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF). This military gain may improve access to medical supplies and food, which had been restricted during the RSF's siege.

Sudan army says two-year RSF siege of key town broken

The crisis in Sudan reflects a dual reality: armed actors have targeted health facilities and workers, while international engagement has failed to address the scale of the emergency. Diplomatic efforts have been inconsistent, humanitarian access remains limited, and funding has not met the urgent needs. Without immediate action to protect medical facilities and restore basic services, the death toll is expected to rise, further erasing Sudan's health system.

Sudan’s war is wiping out healthcare, one hospital at a time

• “Now I pray with every delivery that the mother survives.” — Fatima, Midwife

Sudan’s war is wiping out healthcare, one hospital at a time

• “The war does not distinguish between a child, a woman or an elderly man,” — Taher Almardi, Al Jazeera Correspondent

Sudan’s women break ‘traditional rules’ to survive

The ongoing conflict in Sudan has led to a devastating collapse of healthcare, with dire implications for public health and humanitarian conditions. As the war continues, the need for immediate international intervention and support for the healthcare system becomes increasingly urgent to prevent further loss of life and to restore essential services.

Sudan’s war is wiping out healthcare, one hospital at a time