El Geneina — High food prices and the withdrawal of food rations is causing a humanitarian crisis that could become a disaster in El Geneina camps, in West Darfur.

Leaders of Tunjaki, Kendebe, Beer Dagig, Serba, Abu Suruj, Saraf Jidad, Armenkol, Ban Jadeed, Munjura and Sileya told Radio Dabanga that the camps have had no humanitarian aid since last October, describing the food situation as 'catastrophic' and requiring urgent action.

A leader said they did not know why they were being deprived of assistance after being forced off their land, which is currently being occupied by new settlers.

He said the lack of rations along with the rising food prices has escalated the situation; a kilo of lamb now costs 30 Sudanese pounds, a pound of sugar increased from three to four pounds, a plastic bottle of cooking oil is 12 pounds and a plate of millet has reached seven pounds.