SIHA renews call for gender-responsive protection amid fresh reports of sexual violence in Sudan

July 5, 2024 (NAIROBI) – The Strategic Initiative for Women in the Horn of Africa (SIHA) today reiterated calls for the establishment of a gender-responsive civilian protection framework in Sudan. This follows reports of increased Conflict-Related Sexual Violence (CRSV) after the recent expansion of the conflict into Sennar State.

After the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) advanced into Sennar State, seizing control of Sinja and Al-Dinder on June 29, reports emerged of CRSV, including gang rape, among other human rights violations committed during takeovers.

SIHA has called on international actors to “Implement a gender-responsive civilian protection framework in Sudan, ensuring access to community-led humanitarian aid with enforceable consequences for violations.” The network has already received unconfirmed reports of gender-based violence, including rape, against women in Sennar and Sinja.

The statement also highlighted the widespread issue of missing persons, estimating 1,000 disappearances, including 91 children. Women urgently need humanitarian aid and support to save lives, alleviate suffering, and maintain human dignity.

“Dignity kits with feminine hygiene supplies are essential not only for maintaining dignity but also for preventing health issues,” the statement read. “Access to sexual and reproductive health care, including emergency services, is also a primary necessity.”

The RSF incursion into Sennar State has displaced thousands and disrupted humanitarian aid routes. The systematic use of SGBV in conflict zones across Sudan compounds the suffering of women who have already endured displacement and violence.

SIHA further calls for prioritizing civilian protection in Sudan through gender-responsive aid, establishing safe zones, and holding perpetrators accountable. It also urges support for investigations into human rights violations and disruptions of illicit financial flows that fuel conflict.