Civilians Bear Brunt of Renewed Fighting in South Kordofan, Sudan

Kadugli and Dilling, two key towns in Sudan's South Kordofan State, are facing a worsening humanitarian crisis as civilians become increasingly vulnerable amidst intensified fighting between the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) and an alliance of rebel groups. Local residents report a surge in attacks targeting civilian infrastructure, including shelters for internally displaced persons (IDPs) and residential areas, exacerbating an already dire situation after a year of military siege.

Increased Attacks Target Civilian Areas

Since early October, the "Ta'is" forces – a coalition comprising the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) and the Sudan People’s Liberation Movement-North (SPLM-N) under the leadership of Abdelaziz al-Hilu – have reportedly escalated their offensive on Kadugli and Dilling. Residents speaking to Ayin, a local media outlet, described a deliberate shift in targeting strategy, with civilian areas now bearing the brunt of the attacks.

"The targeting of Kadugli through drones began in the beginning of October," said a volunteer from the Kadugli Resistance Committee, who requested anonymity due to security concerns. "While the targeting initially focused on military areas, the target tragically shifted to include civilian areas." Resistance Committees, grassroots organizations that emerged prior to the current conflict, played a significant role in organizing pro-democracy protests and are now providing essential humanitarian assistance to affected communities.

Historical Context and Current Conflict

South Kordofan has been a flashpoint of conflict for decades, rooted in long-standing grievances related to political marginalization, resource control, and ethnic tensions. The SPLM-N, formerly the northern branch of the Sudan People's Liberation Movement that fought for South Sudan's independence, has been engaged in intermittent armed struggle with the Sudanese government since 2011. The current conflict, which erupted in April 2023 between the SAF and the RSF, has further destabilized the region, drawing in other armed groups and exacerbating existing vulnerabilities.

Dr. Suliman Baldo, a Senior Policy Advisor at the Enough Project specializing in Sudan and the Horn of Africa, highlights the complex dynamics at play. "The situation in South Kordofan is a microcosm of the broader Sudanese crisis. The fragmentation of the security sector, the proliferation of armed groups, and the absence of a credible political process have created a perfect storm. The targeting of civilians is a disturbing trend and a clear violation of international humanitarian law."

Humanitarian Crisis Deepens

The ongoing violence has severely disrupted essential services and humanitarian access. The siege of Kadugli and Dilling has restricted the flow of food, medicine, and other vital supplies, leaving residents facing acute shortages. The targeting of IDP shelters further compounds the suffering of those who have already been displaced from their homes due to the conflict.

Limited access to clean water and sanitation facilities increases the risk of disease outbreaks. Displacement and trauma have led to a surge in mental health issues. Children are particularly vulnerable, facing malnutrition, interrupted education, and the risk of recruitment into armed groups.

Expert Analysis: A Cycle of Violence

According to Ahmed Kodouda, a Sudanese political analyst and researcher at the University of Khartoum, the current conflict is perpetuating a cycle of violence in South Kordofan. "The failure to address the root causes of the conflict, including historical grievances and unequal access to resources, has allowed armed groups to thrive and exploit existing tensions. A sustainable solution requires a comprehensive political settlement that addresses the needs and concerns of all communities in the region."

Kodouda further emphasizes the importance of accountability for war crimes and human rights abuses. "Holding perpetrators accountable for their actions is essential to break the cycle of impunity and deter future violence. The international community has a responsibility to support efforts to investigate and prosecute those responsible for atrocities in South Kordofan."

Calls for Ceasefire and Humanitarian Access

Humanitarian organizations are urgently calling for an immediate ceasefire to allow for the safe delivery of aid to affected populations. They are also appealing to all parties to the conflict to respect international humanitarian law and protect civilians from harm. The international community is urged to increase its support for humanitarian efforts in South Kordofan and to work towards a sustainable political solution to the conflict.