WFP Investigates Officials Over Aid Allegations in Sudan

The U.N. World Food Programme (WFP) is investigating two senior officials in Sudan for alleged fraud and the concealment of information regarding blocked food aid deliveries amid a severe hunger crisis exacerbated by ongoing conflict. The investigation focuses on Deputy Country Director Khalid Osman, who has been temporarily reassigned, and Area Manager Mohammed Ali, linked to the disappearance of over 200,000 liters of UN fuel in Kosti. The scrutiny comes as the WFP struggles to provide aid in a country facing one of the world's worst food shortages, where both the Sudanese army and rival paramilitary forces obstruct humanitarian efforts. The U.S. aid agency USAID has been informed of potential fraud impacting WFP operations, raising concerns about the integrity of aid distribution. Despite these challenges, the WFP is ramping up aid efforts in Sudan, particularly in Darfur, and is exploring the expansion of a self-registration initiative for aid access. Recent developments include the opening of the Adré border crossing, facilitating the movement of humanitarian supplies into conflict areas.