More than 80,000 people crossed into Egypt from Sudan since 15 April

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• 81,172 People have crossed into Egypt from Sudan, including 76,135 Sudanese and 5,037 third-country national according to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs

• UNHCR has so far provided 40,800 bottles of water, 10,000 hygiene kits and 5,000 packs of sanitary napkins to be distributed to newly arrived people at the border.

OVERVIEW OF DEVELOPMENTS

On 15 April 2023, heavy shooting broke out between the Sudanese Armed Forces and paramilitary Rapid Support Forces in Khartoum, affecting many parts of the city. Fighting was also reported in other areas of the country, including Merowe in the Northern State, as well as Darfur, leading to many Sudanese attempting to flee the country or being internally displaced.

The Egyptian Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MFA) has reiterated its commitment to keeping the border open and to not implementing an encampment policy. They have also highlighted the support required for host communities across Egypt, who are receiving the large number of recent arrivals. As of 10 May, 81,172 people have crossed into Egypt, including 76,135 Sudanese and 5,037 third-country nationals, according to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

UNHCR has emphasized that Sudanese fleeing in the wake of hostilities erupting need international protection. While Egypt is applying the Four Freedoms Agreement for Sudanese in Egypt, some people fleeing are unable to meet the entry requirements and therefore cannot cross to Egypt, despite their need for international protection.

The MFA initial clearance for UN staff to be at the two entry points at the border is currently valid for one month, until end of May. There is a need to formalize the presence of UNHCR in Aswan for the assessment and provision of an adequate response, which includes the need for registration and data collection to enable proper planning and the provision of assistance.

More than 80,000 people crossed into Egypt from Sudan since 15 April
Source: Philippines Legacy PH