Khartoum
Al Nao hospital, the last operational health facility in Omdurman city northwest of the Sudanese capital, Khartoum, is facing a grave threat due to the escalating violence, warns Doctors Without Borders (MSF). The organization released a statement expressing concern over the deteriorating situation around Al Nao hospital, highlighting that the violence has become increasingly intense and is endangering both patients and medical staff. Shelling incidents have occurred in the vicinity of the hospital, with shells landing to the north and southwest of the facility. Al Nao hospital, situated in an area marred by conflict, continues to receive individuals injured as a result of the ongoing violence. Although its primary focus has been attending to victims of the fighting, the hospital remains open for patients with various medical emergencies. The heightened insecurity also impacts the hospital’s staff, who often need to work extended hours due to the danger posed to their colleagues’ commute. The challenging circumstances under which the medical professionals are operating are amplifying the stress on an already strained healthcare system. Frauke Ossig, the MSF emergency coordinator in Sudan, emphasized the urgent need for all parties involved in the conflict to spare civilians from the unacceptable violence and to prioritize the protection of hospitals and healthcare workers. Ossig emphasized that the effective functioning of hospitals is paramount to reducing suffering and hardship within the affected communities. As the situation unfolds, the ability of Al Nao hospital to provide life-saving care remains in jeopardy, underscoring the critical importance of safeguarding medical facilities and personnel during times of conflict.
