Sudanese mark fourth Eid of war as conflict nears fourth year

March 20, 2026 (PORT SUDAN) – Sudanese marked a sombre Eid al-Fitr on Friday as the war between the army and the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) neared its fourth year, leaving millions in displacement.

The holiday arrives as the conflict, which began on April 15, 2023, continues to tear families apart across the country and in refugee camps abroad.

Sociologist Lamia Mohamed Ahmed said traditional family gatherings have been replaced by forced separation and mourning.

“Families are living in deep sorrow, grieving for lost loved ones and their country,” Ahmed told Sudan Tribune.

Ahmed warned of long-term psychological trauma for children who have spent years hearing gunfire and witnessing violence.

U.N. and International Organization for Migration data show Sudan remains the world’s largest displacement crisis.

More than 11 million people are internally displaced, while over 4 million have fled to neighbouring countries.

An additional 470,000 people are expected to flee the country during 2026, according to official estimates.

Kamal al-Rashid, a resident of Khartoum North, said while the religious significance of Eid remains, the social joy has been absent for four years.

“The atmosphere is tragic,” al-Rashid said, adding that the empty streets of the capital reflect the depth of the crisis.

Sovereignty Council Chairman Abdel Fattah al-Burhan performed Eid prayers at the army’s General Command mosque in Khartoum.

Mosque sermons across the country focused on peace and national unity as citizens struggle with the ongoing hardships of the war.