It's Been Almost 2 Years: What is Happening in Sudan?

Since April 15, 2023, Sudan has been trapped in a relentless war between the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) and the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF). What began as a political power struggle has escalated into one of the world's worst humanitarian crises, displacing over 8 million people, plunging millions into famine, and pushing the country toward collapse.

The Power Struggle That Sparked a War

Sudan's conflict stems from a bitter rivalry between two military leaders:

• Gen Abdel Fattah al-Burhan: Leader of the SAF and de facto head of state.
• Gen Mohamed Hamdan Dagalo ("Hemedti"): Leader of the RSF, a powerful paramilitary force.

Tensions erupted over the proposed integration of the RSF into the national army, a move that would have determined who held ultimate control over Sudan's future. In April 2023, clashes broke out between the two factions, plunging Sudan into a full-scale civil war.

While the initial battles centered on strategic military installations, the conflict quickly spread to urban centers, turning entire cities into war zones. The RSF took control of large parts of Khartoum and Darfur, while the SAF maintained control over eastern and northern regions, including Port Sudan.

The Toll on Civilians: Death, Displacement, and Starvation

With more than 8 million people forced from their homes, Sudan is experiencing the largest and fastest-growing displacement crisis in the world. Nearly 8.5 million people are displaced within Sudan, while over 3 million have fled to neighboring countries like Egypt, Chad, South Sudan, Ethiopia, and Libya.

Chad alone hosts over 700,000 Sudanese refugees, mostly women and children. Meanwhile, 650,000 South Sudanese refugees who had been living in Sudan have been forced to return to their unstable homeland.

The war has devastated Sudan's food supply, causing widespread hunger. The Famine Review Committee officially confirmed famine in parts of Darfur, with at least 750,000 people facing catastrophic food insecurity (IPC 5 levels)—meaning starvation-related deaths are occurring daily.

The UN has labeled Sudan the world's worst hunger crisis, with over 25 million people in need of humanitarian assistance. Humanitarian agencies face significant obstacles in delivering aid, with roadblocks, looting, and ongoing violence preventing essential food and medical supplies from reaching those in need.

Darfur, which has a long history of ethnic conflict, has once again become a killing ground. Reports indicate that RSF forces and allied militias have been carrying out ethnic cleansing and crimes against humanity against non-Arab communities, particularly the Massalit people.

The UN, the U.S., and human rights organizations have warned that the situation in Darfur is at high risk of escalating into genocide. Survivors report mass executions, sexual violence, and villages being burned to the ground. Satellite images show entire communities wiped out, reminiscent of the 2003-2005 Darfur genocide led by the Janjaweed militia, from which the RSF emerged.

A Collapsing Healthcare System and Disease Outbreaks

Sudan's healthcare system is in ruins. Nearly 75% of hospitals are non-functional, and those that remain open are overwhelmed and under attack. The World Health Organization (WHO) has documented over 119 attacks on medical facilities, but the actual number is believed to be much higher.

Amidst this collapse, Sudan is experiencing severe cholera, measles, and malaria outbreaks. With malnutrition rates skyrocketing, children are dying from preventable diseases at alarming rates. Sudan now has the world's highest child displacement crisis, with over 90% of the country's 19 million school-age children lacking access to education.

The International Response: Inaction and Neglect

Despite the scale of the crisis, international response efforts have been slow and inadequate.

• The UN and humanitarian groups have repeatedly sounded the alarm, calling for more funding and aid access, yet Sudan remains overshadowed by other global crises like Ukraine and Gaza.
• The African Union and international mediators have attempted peace negotiations, but these efforts have failed to produce a lasting ceasefire.
• The U.S. and UK have called on foreign nations, particularly the UAE, to stop arming the warring factions, but external support continues to fuel the war.
• A €2 billion aid package was pledged in April 2024, but much of it has yet to reach those in need due to logistical and security challenges.

A War Without End?

With both generals refusing to back down, Sudan is caught in a violent deadlock. The RSF and SAF continue to fight for control, while millions of civilians remain trapped in the crossfire.

Unless urgent diplomatic action is taken, Sudan risks further ethnic cleansing, famine, and total state collapse. The conflict does not only threaten Sudan—it has the potential to destabilize the entire East African region.

How You Can Help

Sudan's crisis is one of the most devastating humanitarian disasters of our time, yet it remains largely ignored by the world. Raising awareness, donating, and advocating for diplomatic intervention are critical to preventing further suffering.

Sudan needs the world's attention—help spread the word and support relief efforts today.