Sudanese Citizens Hope for Peace Amidst Ongoing Civil War

A recent analysis highlights the systematic exclusion of Sudanese women’s experiences in narratives surrounding the ongoing war in Sudan. According to research by Aida Abbashar, traditional war narratives often prioritize male perspectives, disregarding the significant roles women play in resistance and humanitarian efforts. This exclusion not only reinforces patriarchal structures but also affects policy-making and post-war reconstruction initiatives, leaving women's contributions overlooked. The conflict, which began in April 2023, is primarily a power struggle between the Sudanese Armed Forces, led by General Abdel Fattah al-Burhan, and the Rapid Support Forces, commanded by General Mohamed Hamdan Dagalo. Despite their crucial presence in protests and civil society movements throughout Sudan’s history, women remain marginalized in governance and decision-making roles, even in post-conflict settings. Scholars argue that acknowledging women’s agency and contributions is essential for effective governance and rebuilding efforts in post-war Sudan. The ongoing war puts women at heightened risk of violence and displacement, further complicating their already precarious status. For sustainable peace, their voices must be included in both historical documentation and forthcoming political frameworks, as suggested by experts in feminist and postcolonial studies.

The suspension of U.S. humanitarian aid has resulted in the closure of nearly 80% of emergency food kitchens in Sudan, affecting over two million people, according to the BBC. This drastic measure followed President Donald Trump's executive order, which paused contributions from the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) for 90 days to assess their alignment with U.S. interests. The ongoing conflict between Sudan's military and the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces has caused widespread devastation since its eruption in April 2023, killing tens of thousands and displacing millions. The communal kitchens, crucial for feeding the destitute, have been a lifeline during this crisis, often struggling for funding amidst increased demand. Duaa Tariq, an organizer of the emergency kitchens, reported that many are now unprepared to provide food as the situation worsens. While the U.S. State Department has issued a waiver for emergency food assistance, confusion persists about funding logistics, which had previously relied heavily on USAID contributions. Experts caution that without a swift resolution, the humanitarian situation in Sudan is likely to deteriorate further.

A recent three-day assault by Sudan's Rapid Support Forces (RSF) has reportedly resulted in the deaths of more than 200 individuals in villages south of Khartoum, according to the Emergency Lawyers network. The Sudanese government, however, claims the toll may exceed 433, including numerous children. The attacks, which took place in the White Nile State, have left hundreds wounded or unaccounted for, with some believed to have drowned while attempting to escape. Witnesses reported the RSF opening fire on civilians fleeing violence, prompting thousands to leave their homes. United Nations officials mentioned receiving horrific accounts of sexual violence and forced displacements during these assaults. The situation has escalated since the outbreak of conflict between the military and paramilitary forces in April 2023, leading to tens of thousands of deaths and over 12 million displaced, marking it as one of the largest humanitarian crises in recent history. The UN criticized both warring factions for failing to uphold international humanitarian law, with calls for greater accountability and an extension of the International Criminal Court’s jurisdiction in Sudan.