Sudan Conflict: 48 Children Killed, Injured in North Kordofan as UNICEF Sounds Alarm
UNICEF is warning that children in North Kordofan in Sudan are at growing risk due to the ongoing conflict that is threatening their lives, safety and wellbeing.
At least 23 children have been reportedly killed and 25 injured in North Kordofan since the escalation of conflict in Al Obeid in late May 2026, the UN children’s agency reported.
The most recent incident was reported on July 24 in Burbur, south of Al Obeid, where four children, including two boys and two girls between eight and 16 years old, were reportedly killed.
At least eight children have reportedly been killed or injured in July, after at least 10 children were killed or injured in May and at least 30 in June, UNICEF said. The youngest child affected was said to be two months old.
Sheldon Yett, UNICEF Representative for Sudan, called on all parties to safeguard children and respect their rights, saying that behind every number is a child whose life has been cut short and a family whose future has been changed forever.
Children all over Sudan are still suffering the effects of over three years of conflict. According to UNICEF, at least 330 children were reportedly killed or injured in the first half of 2026.
In addition to the loss of life and injuries, children are experiencing multiple displacement, damaged schools and health facilities, and limited access to basic services, including clean water and health care.
UNICEF has urged all parties to the conflict to ensure children and civilians are protected, to abide by international humanitarian law and to ensure schools, hospitals, water systems and other services that children rely on are spared of the impact of violence.
Child protection organisations call for immediate action to stop further harm and to provide safety, care and support for children impacted by conflict.
