Humanitarian and rights organizations urgently call for the restoration of telecommunications in Sudan amidst a worsening humanitarian crisis. Over 94 groups, including members of the #KeepItOn coalition, emphasize the need to re-establish telecom services nationwide to save lives.
Sudan is facing the world’s worst displacement crisis and is on the brink of a severe hunger crisis, with nearly 25 million people in need of aid. Over a year of conflict has destroyed homes, towns, and critical infrastructure.
The conflict has seen targeted attacks on telecom facilities and restrictions on satellite-internet devices, severely impacting civilians and aid workers. Reliable internet access is crucial for sharing lifesaving information, accessing cash transfers, and coordinating aid efforts.
A telecom shutdown in February 2024 left nearly 30 million Sudanese without internet or phone access, separating families and disrupting aid. While some services were restored, many areas remain disconnected, worsening the crisis.
All stakeholders must ensure uninterrupted telecom services, recognizing them as critical civilian infrastructure. Restrictions on satellite-internet must be lifted, and the importation of devices facilitated. Service providers should maintain access without additional costs.
The UN should enhance emergency telecom capacity in affected regions, providing services to humanitarian actors and civilians until stable solutions are available.
