Darfur Joint Force deploys to El Fasher as RSF shifts Libya-based equipment

January 30, 2025 (EL FASHER) – A senior source within the joint force of Darfur armed movements told Sudan Tribune on Thursday that its troops are redeploying from central Sudan to El Fasher in North Darfur as fighting intensifies and the rival Rapid Support Forces (RSF) moves heavy equipment from Libya.

The source said forces that fought alongside the Sudanese army to retake Wad Madani began withdrawing three days after the city was recaptured. A withdrawal from the south of Shendi, near the Al-Jaili Geli refinery, started on Wednesday.

Since April, the joint force has been a key ally for the army, particularly around the Jazeera region and in battles near the Geli refinery north of Khartoum Bahri.

The decision to redeploy to Darfur follows a sustained RSF withdrawal from Khartoum towards the western region, the source said.

The source added that the RSF has begun moving heavy weaponry and specialized military equipment from its Maatan al-Sarah base in Libya, near the Chadian border, into Darfur. Chadian fighters have also recently joined the conflict, the source claimed.

The RSF largely retreated from Khartoum Bahri after army reinforcements arrived. The RSF abandoned many positions but still maintained a presence in the Kafouri area.