Sudan’s civil war has led to a staggering humanitarian crisis, fueling a massive influx of refugees into neighboring Central African Republic (CAR). The conflict began in April 2023, stemming from a power struggle between military leaders Gen. Abdel Fattah al-Burhan and Mohamed Hamdan Dagalo of the Rapid Support Forces (RSF). As of now, over 4.4 million Sudanese have fled their homes, with a significant portion seeking refuge in the Korsi camp in Birao.
Humanitarian Crisis and Displacement
The United Nations has declared this situation as the world’s worst displacement crisis, with more than 11 million people uprooted from their homes. The conflict’s impact extends across borders, with Birao’s refugee population surging as many escape violence and instability. Refugees describe harrowing journeys, often threatened by thieves and armed groups.
- Estimated 33 million people in Sudan require humanitarian assistance.
- Over 40,000 deaths have been reported, though actual figures could be much higher.
- Approximately 21.2 million people are facing acute food insecurity.
Challenges Faced by Refugees
Upon arrival in Birao, many refugees find inadequate essentials like clean water and food. Digital registration with the UNHCR aims to provide some structure, yet the reality is bleak. Aid funding has drastically decreased, with U.S. contributions for refugee support nearly halving between 2024 and 2025. The situation is exacerbated by the fact that CAR remains one of the poorest countries globally, where nearly 70% of the population survives on less than $2.15 a day.
Hikmah Hussain, a former Sudanese Red Crescent worker, recalls the chaos that forced her to flee. After experiencing the death of her sister in an airstrike, she recognized the immediate danger to her life. Others in the camp share stories of loss and survival, highlighting the urgent need for international aid.
International Aid Cuts
Humanitarian organizations, including Oxfam, have reported alarming funding deficits. In 2025, only 40% of the $4.2 billion U.S. Humanitarian Response Plan for Sudan was funded, down from 70% the prior year. This reduction has had tangible effects on the refugees’ living conditions.
Moreover, services supporting survivors of gender-based violence and other critical aid initiatives have faced severe cuts. UNFPA has been forced to close support operations, heightening concerns about the psychological trauma of war.
Community Resilience Amidst Aid Challenges
Despite these hardships, resilience is emerging among the displaced. Refugees have organized community kitchens and support networks to mitigate the impacts of decreased aid. Nonetheless, informal support systems are now threatened by dwindling resources, as approximately 42% of community kitchens have had to close.
The Ongoing Conflict
The conflict shows little sign of resolution, with violence continuing in regions like Darfur, Blue Nile, and Kordofan states. External influences, including the involvement of foreign actors, have contributed to the escalation and complexity of the war.
The use of drone warfare has markedly increased, intensifying the conflict’s lethality. Reports indicate over 1,000 documented drone strikes since the conflict began, leading to more displacement and suffering among civilians.
Looking Ahead
Overwhelmed by the ongoing conflict and desperate for a semblance of normality, many refugees in Birao express a longing to return home, contingent on the end of hostilities. As the humanitarian crisis deepens, the need for a coordinated international response becomes increasingly urgent to address Sudan’s civil war impact on refugees and help restore their dignity.
