Sudan’s pro-democracy lawyers reported a tragic incident in Omdurman, where civilians became the latest victims of the ongoing conflict between forces loyal to army chief Abdel Fattah al-Burhan and his former deputy, Mohamed Hamdan Daglo, commander of the Rapid Support Forces (RSF).
During a fierce exchange of fire between the warring factions, shells struck a market in Omdurman, claiming the lives of more than 20 civilians and leaving several others injured. The incident adds to the growing list of atrocities committed during the six-month-long conflict.
Omdurman, a city that has witnessed intense battles since the conflict erupted in April, has become emblematic of the devastating impact of the war. Initially concentrated in the capital and the western region of Darfur, the fighting has now spread to areas south of Khartoum, exacerbating the humanitarian crisis.
According to the Armed Conflict Location & Event Data project, over 10,000 people have lost their lives in the Sudan conflict, although the real toll is believed to be higher, with many victims never making it to hospitals or morgues. The conflict has also forced an estimated 5.5 million people to flee their homes, both within Sudan and across borders, leading to one of the world’s most severe protection crises.
The situation in Sudan continues to deteriorate, with alarming reports of women and girls being kidnapped daily in Darfur, subjecting them to slavery. The United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) has urgently appealed to the international community for increased financial support to address the growing humanitarian needs.
“The UNHCR’s humanitarian response in Sudan is only about a third funded,” warned Assadullah Nasrullah, spokesperson for the UNHCR in Sudan. He emphasised the pressing need for attention and assistance, highlighting that despite the ongoing crisis in Sudan, global focus has been diverted to other conflicts, such as the war in Gaza.
“The number of people fleeing their homes continues to increase, the situation continues to deteriorate, the needs increase,” Nasrullah added. The UNHCR’s appeal aims to secure necessary resources to provide vital aid to the displaced population, urging donor countries and the international community to act swiftly to alleviate the suffering of Sudanese civilians caught in the midst of this devastating conflict.
Kiki Garba
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