Aid workers have used donkeys to deliver the first humanitarian supplies to survivors of a devastating landslide in a remote Sudanese village, where hundreds are feared dead after the disaster struck on Sunday. The difficult terrain and ongoing heavy rains have made access challenging, highlighting the urgent need for assistance.
The landslide occurred in Tarseen village in the Darfur region, triggered by intense rainfall that caused flash floods and mudslides. The remote location in the Marra Mountains has complicated rescue efforts, with vehicles unable to reach the area due to steep and muddy paths.
Death toll estimates vary widely, with local leaders reporting around 370 bodies recovered and buried, while the Sudan Liberation Movement/Army (SLM/A) claims over 1,000 fatalities. The exact number remains uncertain as many victims are still trapped under debris or carried away by floodwaters, and verification is hampered by the isolation.
Save the Children dispatched an emergency team on donkeys, taking over six hours to reach the village with medical supplies, food, and shelter materials. The team includes healthcare and child protection experts to address the immediate physical and psychological needs of the affected families.
The United Nations is coordinating with partners to conduct a thorough assessment and provide verified figures in the coming days. The disaster adds to Sudan’s profound humanitarian crisis, exacerbated by a prolonged civil war that has displaced millions and strained resources.
Heavy rains have affected multiple regions in Sudan, increasing the risk of disease outbreaks and further emergencies. Aid organizations emphasize the critical need for international support to scale up response efforts and prevent additional suffering in this vulnerable context.