The conflict in Sudan, which commenced on April 15, 2023, involves rival factions of the military government: the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) and the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF). The violence has been particularly concentrated around the capital, Khartoum, and the Darfur region, escalating to a full-scale war due to a power struggle, especially concerning military reform between the SAF and the RSF123. Here’s a timeline of notable events, largely focused on the conflict’s onset and its dire consequences:
Timeline:
- April 2023:
- April 15:
- In Khartoum, the RSF attacked multiple SAF bases, and clashes escalated quickly. Key locations such as the Khartoum International Airport and the Presidential Palace became focal points of the fighting. The Sudanese Air Force retaliated with airstrikes on RSF positions. State broadcaster Sudan TV’s headquarters also witnessed violence, and many roads in Khartoum were closed. SAF accused the RSF of trying to bring the deposed leader Omar al-Bashir back to power, calling for international intervention against the RSF.
- In Darfur, simultaneous clashes erupted, especially in the capitals of North and South Darfur states. RSF forces attempted to seize strategic locations, including airports and military headquarters, with ongoing battles reported in several areas of the region4.
- April 15:
- July 2023:
- July 24: The war reached its 100-day mark with no signs of abating2.
- August 2023:
- August 15: The conflict had resulted in an estimated 4,000 to 10,000 fatalities and 6,000 to 12,000 injuries by this point1.
- October 2023:
- October 15: Six months into the conflict, at least 5,000 civilians had been killed, over 12,000 injured, and over 5.7 million people forcibly displaced5.
- October 19: The United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) reported that over 7 million people were facing hunger due to the conflict, with about 15 million people, or 31% of the population, being acutely food insecure. The situation was exacerbated by disease outbreaks, civilian displacement, and the destruction of livelihoods, posing a threat to the entire country6.
The situation in Sudan remains dire, with various humanitarian crises unfolding alongside the ongoing military conflict.
History of conflict and peace times in Sudan
Sudan has a complex history of conflict, intertwined with its political evolution. Here’s a simplified overview of the key historical phases and conflicts leading up to the current situation:
Colonial Era and Independence:
- 1899 to 1956: Sudan was under Anglo-Egyptian rule. During this period, the colonial powers largely kept the north and south separate, contributing to longstanding divisions.
- 1956: Sudan gained independence, but tensions between the north and south, largely along religious and ethnic lines, were apparent.
First Sudanese Civil War:
- 1955 to 1972: This war was primarily between the northern government and southern rebels. The conflict ended with the Addis Ababa Agreement, granting more autonomy to the south.
Peaceful Interlude:
- 1972 to 1983: This period saw relative peace and stability, but underlying tensions remained. Development was unequal, with the north seeing more benefits than the south.
Second Sudanese Civil War:
- 1983 to 2005: Conflict reignited due to various factors including disputes over resources, and religious and cultural differences. The war ended with the signing of the Comprehensive Peace Agreement (CPA), which also provided for a referendum on southern independence.
Darfur Conflict:
- 2003 to 2010: While the Second Civil War was ongoing, a separate conflict erupted in Darfur. It involved government forces and allied militias against rebel groups, resulting in significant civilian casualties and displacement.
Independence of South Sudan:
- 2011: Following a referendum, South Sudan became independent. However, border disputes and conflicts over oil resources continued.
Post-Secession Era:
- 2011 to 2019: Despite South Sudan’s secession, internal conflicts persisted in both Sudan and South Sudan. In Sudan, economic hardships, political repression, and localized conflicts continued.
Sudanese Revolution:
- 2018 to 2019: A series of protests led to the overthrow of President Omar al-Bashir, who had ruled since 1989. A transitional government was formed, comprising both civilian and military leaders, aiming to lead the country to elections.
Transitional Period:
- 2019 to 2023: This period saw attempts at political and economic reforms, but tensions between different factions within the transitional government and military simmered, eventually leading to the outbreak of conflict in 2023.
Peaceful Times:
During peaceful times, Sudan had moments of economic growth, especially when oil revenues were high. Its diverse culture and history are embodied in its ancient archaeological sites, and a variety of cultural festivals and events. Khartoum, the capital, is where the Blue and White Nile rivers meet, and it’s historically a significant commercial and cultural hub. Nonetheless, the peaceful intervals were often short-lived, and the country’s development was severely hampered by the prolonged periods of conflict.
With all this in mind, how safe is it to travel to Sudan? or travel to South Sudan?