Attachments
Agenda Items 1- Security and cluster update:
Security and Attacks on HealthCare
Attacks on healthcare remain a critical red flag and are universally unacceptable. Such incidents target health personnel and health assets, including facilities, equipment, and other essential infrastructure. These attacks are considered a strict “no-go” under international norms.
As of April 2026, marking the end of the first quarter of the year, the situation has significantly deteriorated compared to the past two years. The number of attacks has increased dramatically, resulting in over 159 deaths and more than 300 injuries. These casualties are largely linked to damage and destruction of healthcare infrastructure. The loss of both physical infrastructure and human resources continues to severely impact on the functionality and resilience of the health system. Additionally, the changing frontlines are further exacerbating the situation and limiting access to essential health services.
Health Cluster ICCG update:
• The prioritization process remains a key focus at the Inter-Cluster Coordination Group (ICCG) level. Following the initial prioritization of 17+5 localities and the subsequent expansion to 84 priority localities under the USG funding, a third phase is currently underway. This phase aims to prioritize all locations included in the (HNRP) 2026. The Health Cluster has already shared initial inputs at the ICCG level and will continue to actively engage with the Strategic Advisory Group (SAG) and partners to ensure that health priorities are adequately reflected.
• Regarding funding and response efforts, a proposal has been submitted through OCHA for a US$28 million six-month targeted health response for Kordofans localities. Updates on this appeal will be shared as they become available.
• On IDP relocations, discussions are being led by the Shelter Cluster and other relevant sectors. The Health Cluster is actively contributing to ensure that health service needs are incorporated into relocation planning, recognizing that population movements directly increase demand for health services.
• Efforts are ongoing to harmonize referral mechanisms across clusters. This process is being led by the Protection Cluster, AAP, and Cash Working Groups. The Health Cluster is contributing to ensure that health referral pathways are fully integrated. This remains a work in progress.
• The planned ICCG mission to Kadugli (mid-April) is likely to be postponed due to competing priorities involving the Humanitarian Coordinator and Deputy in Kosti. Revised dates will be communicated once confirmed, and Health Cluster participation is anticipated. • An After-Action Review (AAR) of the HNRP 2026 process is scheduled for 28 April. This will provide an opportunity to capture key lessons learned and best practices. Partners are encouraged to share feedback to inform this review.
• Discussions on the Sudan Humanitarian Fund (SHF) are ongoing, with the newly appointed lead conducting consultations with clusters to align funding processes and gather partner feedback on allocation modalities (standard and reserve).
• On cholera preparedness, although the outbreak has officially been declared over, risks remain high. A joint Health and WASH cholera preparedness concept note requesting approximately US$50 million has been submitted. Advocacy efforts across ICCG, SHF, and donor platforms continue to emphasize the importance of preparedness to prevent costly emergency responses.
• The security situation in Blue Nile is deteriorating, resulting in new displacement and anticipated disruptions to health services. A state-level emergency operations room, led by OCHA, has been activated. A multi-sectoral rapid needs assessment is planned, particularly in Al Karama gathering site. Health partners will be engaged to contribute to the assessment and ensure that priority health needs are identified and addressed.