IGAD proposes African force to implement Sudan truce

NOVEMBER 16, 2024 (DJIBOUTI) – The Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD) has proposed deploying African troops from countries uninvolved in Sudan’s conflict to implement a shaky ceasefire agreement, sources told Sudan Tribune.

The proposal, submitted to regional and international stakeholders in August, calls for approximately 4,500 troops, with each contributing nation providing 900 personnel, including non-military technical staff, for a renewable six-month term. Any extension would require consultation with the warring factions.

This initiative follows the Jeddah Declaration, a truce agreement reached between Sudan’s army and the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) in May 2023. However, violations have marred the deal, hindering efforts to deliver aid and protect civilians.

“The Jeddah Declaration faced numerous challenges, primarily the lack of implementation mechanisms,” IGAD envoy to Sudan, Lawrence Korbandi, told Sudan Tribune in a previous interview.

The proposed force would monitor compliance with the agreement, report violations, and recommend accountability measures for human rights abuses and war crimes. Given its status as the country’s political and economic centre, Khartoum would serve as the mission’s temporary headquarters.

The initiative comes as Sudanese political and civilian groups, along with international organizations, urge the deployment of a UN or international peacekeeping force to protect civilians caught in the crossfire.

In September, the UN’s Independent International Fact-Finding Mission recommended an arms embargo and the deployment of peacekeepers, citing widespread violations by both sides that may amount to war crimes or crimes against humanity.

In October, U.S. envoy to Sudan, Tom Perriello, revealed that discussions were underway with the African Union to establish a monitoring mechanism for existing and future agreements to protect civilians.