UNHCR Scales Up Emergency Aid as Sudanese Refugees Flee to Libya Amid Worsening Crisis

Many refugees are living in makeshift tents on the outskirts of Alkufra, enduring harsh conditions without adequate water, sanitation facilities, or safe shelters.

 As the crisis in Sudan intensifies, the number of refugees fleeing to neighboring Libya has surged, with approximately 97,000 individuals seeking refuge in the country since the conflict began. Alkufra, a critical entry point for Sudanese refugees into Libya, is now overwhelmed, receiving around 350 new arrivals daily. Recent flooding has further strained the already limited local infrastructure, forcing some refugees to take temporary shelter in schools.

Many refugees are living in makeshift tents on the outskirts of Alkufra, enduring harsh conditions without adequate water, sanitation facilities, or safe shelters. These precarious living situations expose them to extreme weather, health risks, and heightened protection concerns, particularly for women and children. The lack of basic amenities has left children vulnerable to malnutrition, disease, and disruption in their education, while women face increased risks of violence.

In response, the UN Refugee Agency (UNHCR) and its partners have intensified their emergency aid operations in eastern Libya, thanks to the cooperation of Libyan authorities who have facilitated access to the affected areas. UNHCR has provided essential aid to over 8,000 refugees in Alkufra, including blankets, mattresses, tarpaulins, and personal care supplies. Additionally, Alkufra General Hospital has been equipped with crucial medical supplies such as medicine, hospital beds, wheelchairs, electrocardiographs, and prenatal care tools.

"Women and children continue to pay the highest price in this crisis," said Aseer Al Madaien, UNHCR Chief of Mission in Libya. “As we continue to witness a relentless flow of refugees fleeing from unimaginable circumstances, we call on the international community to support Sudanese refugees who have been generously hosted by countries in the region and to bolster the response.”

UNHCR’s efforts are part of a broader strategy to integrate protection through coordinated actions with other UN agencies and NGOs, assisting local authorities in addressing the immense needs. Under the 2024 Regional Refugee Response Plan for Sudan, UNHCR, alongside its partners, aims to support 195,000 Sudanese refugees and Libyan host communities. An urgent appeal has been made for US$48 million to provide life-saving assistance, including food, healthcare, clean water, and temporary shelter.