News

Local Solutions, Lasting Impact: Advancing Water Access in Sudan

Real impact happens when we work with our local partners

Three years into this brutal conflict, Sudan remains the worst humanitarian crisis in the world. Access to basic services are significantly constrained, and a major public health emergency has also unfolded. Since July 2024, more than 83,000 cholera cases and 2,100 deaths have been reported across Sudan, with over 32,000 suspected cases recorded in 2025 alone.

In this context, the urgency to protect basic human rights particularly access to safe water has never been greater. Through our local partnership with Sudan Zero Waste Organization (SZWO), we are working to empower national actors to directly respond to these crises at scale, through the delivery of effective, sustainable and context-driven solutions.

In 2025, Khartoum state experienced severe water shortages driven by damage to infrastructure supporting water supply system. This led to severe water shortages and increased the risks of cholera.

In partnership with DRC, SZWO worked to rehabilitate and solarize key water supply points. Solar-powered systems ensured continuity of water supply despite power outages, reduced reliance on fuel, and provided a more sustainable and cost-efficient solution.

This work both improved access to safe water and reduced the risk of environmental disasters, ultimately restoring dignity to conflict - affected populations.

Yet, the need remains urgent. With infrastructure damaged across Sudan, sustained investment in water systems rehabilitation and locally led responses is critical.

Access to safe water and other essential services should not depend on circumstances.

Because safe water and other essential services should never depend on circumstance, it must be guaranteed for all and in safer settings, we call for increased humanitarian support, stronger investment in essential services, and an end to the conflict that continues to drive suffering across Sudan.