WATCH: Sudan’s animals in danger amid ongoing conflict and power cuts

Sudan’s animal rescue centers and zoos are at risk as the ongoing crisis in the capital city of Khartoum has led to power and water cuts.

This has left animals in danger of starvation and escape.

Sudan’s animals in danger

The Animal Rescue Center in Khartoum, Sudan is struggling to provide adequate care due to the lack of supplies caused by the fighting.

This centre cares for 25 lions, six hyenas, two camels, five squirrels, as well as several monkeys, turtles, and dogs.

The rescue center is located near a military base where clashes are happening daily, putting the workers and volunteers in danger.

The centre’s stock of food and drink is slowly running out, while goods and materials vital for animal care are becoming scarce.

In addition to the conflict in the region, soaring temperatures reaching up to 45 degrees Celsius also complicate the situation.

A caretaker at the centre said on Twitter: “The temperature is 45⁰C, it is very hot, and the biggest problem we have is water and electricity. All work by hand.”

WATCH: ‘We continue to provide food’

And with power cuts thrown into the mix, the electrified fences separating dangerous animals are not working, leading to animal escapes.

Artillery shells falling within the enclosures endanger the animals. Even though the enclosures for lions and hyenas are intact for now, their welfare remains uncertain.

READ: Sudan evacuations: South Africans arrive safely in Egypt

Conflict in Sudan

The clashes between the army and the RSF, which erupted eight days ago, have resulted in hundreds of civilian deaths and trapped many thousands in their homes.

According to Sudan Animal Rescue, the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) militiamen have stolen the center’s Toyota Hilux.

Citizens are increasingly being forced to flee to surrounding regions and neighboring countries to avoid the fighting.

However, for the staff caring for the animals in Khartoum’s rescue center, leaving is not an option.

This situation highlights the need for greater protection during times of crisis, and it is hoped that aid organizations and international agencies will step up to support the animal rescue centers and zoos in Sudan during this difficult time.