Port Sudan, Sudan, August 15 – As the situation for civilians in Sudan is worsening, especially in el-Fasher, North Darfur, Center for Civilians in Conflict (CIVIC) urges immediate humanitarian access, stronger protections for civilians, and a ceasefire. The organization has also begun operations in Sudan to help communities protect themselves.

As civilians face relentless attacks and aid remains blocked, CIVIC is starting work in Sudan to protect people at risk,” said Mohamed Younis, CIVIC’s Sudan Country Director. “We are beginning to support local initiatives driven by civilians such as women-led safety networks, food assistance, and school repairs to keep children learning.

Fighting between the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) and the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) since April 2023 has killed tens of thousands and forced over 12 million people from their homes. The use of explosive weapons in populated areas has been a dominant feature of this conflict, causing significant civilian harm and widespread destruction of civilian infrastructure.

In el-Fasher, all health facilities including major hospitals like Al Saudi have been attacked multiple times. Meanwhile, a RSF siege in the region has left civilians without enough food, medicine, or fuel. Nearly 40% of children under five suffer from acute malnutrition.

Starvation tactics must stop,” Younis said. “There is no justification for blocking aid or attacking aid or hospitals. The world must act now to prevent further atrocities and starvation in Darfur, especially in el-Fasher.

CIVIC calls on the RSF to lift its siege and allow aid into el-Fasher and other besieged towns, and on all parties to the conflict to take steps to protect civilians and agree on a ceasefire. CIVIC also urges the United States, Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, and Egypt to push for aid access and the protection of civilians in ongoing Sudan talks, and for all countries to respect the UN Arms Embargo on Darfur.

CIVIC in Sudan

CIVIC engages with communities, local groups, and armed actors to reduce harm to civilians. Our work aims to enhance the protection of civilians in affected areas such as Khartoum, Gezira, Eastern Sudan, and Darfur by supporting locally-led, civilian-driven initiatives.

For additional information or media inquiries, please contact:

Hajer Naili, Director of Communications, [email protected], +31 6 21 69 68 86/ +1 917 889 5982 (WhatsApp)

CIVIC Communications: [email protected]

Spokespersons available for interviews in English, French, and Arabic.