A fresh cholera outbreak in Sudan has claimed at least 120 lives, with 1,102 suspected infections reported since May, according to the World Health Organization (WHO).

The latest outbreak comes as the country continues to grapple with the impact of more than three years of conflict between the Sudanese army and the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF), a war that has severely weakened the nation’s healthcare system.

The WHO said this is Sudan’s third cholera outbreak in three years. The previous outbreak, which lasted from July 2024 to March 2026, infected more than 124,400 people and resulted in about 3,500 deaths, based on government figures.

WHO Representative in Sudan, Dr. Shible Sahbani, explained that while cholera had historically appeared in cycles every three years, the ongoing conflict, limited humanitarian access and shortages of essential medical supplies have led to more frequent outbreaks.

Health officials also expressed concern that the situation could deteriorate further as the rainy season approaches. Millions of people lack access to clean drinking water, while seasonal flooding is expected to make it even more difficult to reach affected communities.

The Sudanese government recently declared the latest outbreak in West Kordofan State, an area heavily affected by fighting between government forces and the RSF. The WHO said there are also reports of nearly 300 suspected cases and three deaths in neighbouring North Kordofan, raising fears that the disease is spreading.

The humanitarian situation has been worsened by repeated drone attacks that have disrupted electricity and access to safe drinking water in several communities, including the state capital of El-Obeid.

According to the WHO, about 40 per cent of Sudan’s health facilities are no longer operational, while many of those still functioning are only able to provide limited medical services because of the prolonged conflict.

(Photo Credit: Punch Newspaper)