The Voice – brought to you by The Page & Epistle

 By: Ari Binyam (’28)

  Since April 2023, Sudan has been experiencing a humanitarian crisis that has been detrimental to their livelihood as a country. Located in Northeast Africa, Sudan gained its independence from the United Kingdom and Egypt in 1956. In its short 69 years of independence, Sudan has been involved in numerous conflicts, including 2 civil wars. Currently, the country is in the midst of an ongoing civil war between the Sudanese Armed Forces, or the SAF, and the Rapid Support Forces, also known as the RSF. The RSF is a paramilitary group that traces its origins to the Janjaweed militia groups in the War of Darfur during the early 2000s. Initially, the RSF was allied with the SAF, but they disputed over integrating themselves into one army, which led to the eruption of war in April 2023.

 Throughout this war, the RSF has performed countless heinous acts of violence towards innocent civilians, including mass killings, sexual violence and rape, and other methods of torture. On October 26th, however, the RSF captured the last military stronghold of the SAF in the Darfur region of the country, in the city of El Fasher. Since their arrival, at least 2,000 civilians have been killed, so much so blood stains and mass graves can be seen through satellite images. Those who are still trapped in El Fasher face unimaginable problems. Many cannot afford to escape the city through any method of transportation, and an ongoing blockade of aid from the United Nations by the RSF into their areas of influence prevents a large amount of direct help from outside of El-Fasher to enter the city. Simultaneous lack of food and hygiene further elevates these harsh conditions.  

Despite these horrible circumstances, anyone can still help support those suffering in Sudan. Organizations such as the IRC and UNICEF are working to reinforce existing aid in the country and are searching for ways to adjust their help in accordance with the ongoing crisis. Donating to these organizations and spreading accurate awareness for the cause are some of the many ways one can help Sudan through this time of need.