The UN refugee agency (UNCHR) said Tuesday that the estimated number of people fleeing from the ongoing conflict in Sudan is expected to surpass one million sooner than previously projected.

UNHCR Assistant Commissioner for Operations Rouf Mazou expressed concerns over the fact that approximately 560,000 refugees fled the country within the first two months of the conflict, which began in April. UNCHR, for example, estimated that 100,000 refugees would arrive in Chad in six months. They have now revised the figure to 245,000. While the conflict in Sudan continues to persist, particularly in the capital city of Khartoum and the regions of Darfur and Kordofan, over 2.5 million people have been internally displaced.

The region of Darfur is currently a major cause for concern due to restricted access resulting from the recent conflict in the area. Reports have emerged of Sudanese civilians attempting to flee El Geneina, a city in Darfur, being targeted by repeated militia attacks. Some of these civilians have lost their lives, while others have been shot at while trying to escape on foot toward Chad.

UNHCR is particularly worried about the situation along the Chad-Sudan border, as ongoing rains and cross-border attacks pose significant challenges to the delivery of essential humanitarian aid. There have been no official reports of a ceasefire in the conflict, indicating that the fighting continues unabated.

Egypt has emerged as the leading host country for refugees, accommodating nearly 50% of the total refugee population. Egypt’s reputation for hospitality, particularly towards Sudan is considered a major factor driving the influx of refugees to the country.

Other countries witnessing an inflow of Sudanese refugees include South Sudan, Ethiopia, and the Central African Republic. However, concerns arise regarding refugees seeking shelter in South Sudan due to the country’s unstable political climate. Despite reports indicating that most of these refugees are South Sudanese citizens returning to their homeland, the situation remains precarious.

The socio-economic impact of the ongoing hostilities is being felt not only in conflict-affected areas but also in the neighboring countries where refugees have sought safety.

UNCHR has been working to relocate refugees from the border areas to more secure camps, ensuring easier access to vital humanitarian assistance. Mazou emphasized the importance of the international community fulfilling their financial commitments to address the ongoing crisis. Although the initial requested amount was set at $3 billion, he stated that even more resources will be needed in the near future.