The conflict in Darfur, Sudan, has reignited with devastating consequences, as recounted in a firsthand account focusing on the city of El Geneina during 2002-2003. El Geneina was one of at least 100 settlements completely destroyed amid massacres and widespread rape perpetrated by the Arab-dominated Rapid Support Force (RSF) militia. Satellite images reveal that large sections of the city were burned down during the first three months of the war.
The renewed violence has already become the world's biggest single displacement crisis, with up to 11 million people, including 4 million children, forced from their homes and farms. Millions of refugees have fled into neighboring countries, exacerbating the severe humanitarian crisis in the region. An estimated 25 million people are unable to feed themselves properly, and at least 5 million are on the brink of famine.
Why this matters: The resurgence of violence in Darfur echoes the genocide and ethnic cleansing that occurred 20 years ago, with black African groups like the Masalit people being targeted once again. The humanitarian crisis resulting from the conflict has far-reaching implications for the stability and well-being of the entire region.
The current conflict traces its roots back to the atrocities committed by the Janjaweed militia, a group of Arab tribal militias, against non-Arab ethnic minorities in Darfur during 2002-2003. The Janjaweed had ties to the Sudanese government and were involved in a conflict with the Sudanese army at the time. Now, in 2024, the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) paramilitary group, which has its origins in the Janjaweed, is fighting against the Sudanese army once more.
Tribal leaders from seven of South Darfur's main tribes have pledged allegiance to the RSF, potentially significantly impacting the war. Experts warn that this could lead to further ethnic divisions and violence in the region, with the possibility of a proxy war between the army and other tribes. Reports indicate that the RSF and allied militias are already targeting and killing civilians based on their ethnicity, adding an alarming ethnic dimension to the conflict.
The firsthand account and satellite evidence of the destruction in El Geneina serve as a somber reminder of the human toll of the renewed violence in Darfur. As the conflict continues to force millions from their homes and push the region deeper into a humanitarian crisis, the international community faces the urgent need to address the situation and prevent further loss of life and suffering.
Key Takeaways
- Conflict in Darfur, Sudan, has reignited, leading to massive displacement.
- City of El Geneina was destroyed, with large sections burned down.
- Rapid Support Force (RSF) militia targeting black African groups like Masalit.
- Tribal leaders pledge allegiance to RSF, risking further ethnic divisions.
- Humanitarian crisis deepens, with millions unable to feed themselves.