El Fasher clashes displace over 70,000, official says
April 28, 2024 (EL-FASHER) – The recent clashes in El Fasher between the Sudanese army, allied armed movements, and the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) have displaced over 70,000 people, a North Darfur state government official revealed on Sunday.
The UN warned last Friday of a potential humanitarian catastrophe if the RSF attacks El Fasher, a city already crowded with war victims. Tensions have escalated with reports of increased RSF presence and gatherings by Arab tribal supporters around the city.
According to the official, speaking to Sudan Tribune, more than 13,825 families have fled to the western areas of Golo, Shaqra, Abu Daqis, and Zamzam displacement camps. This brings the total displaced population to an estimated 73,883.
The official acknowledged ongoing confinement in some communities and the urgent need for humanitarian intervention. Displaced people face critical water, sanitation, healthcare, food, and shelter shortages. He appealed to humanitarian organizations for immediate action.
Press reports allege ethnically motivated attacks by the RSF and allied militias on villages west of El Fasher, triggering the mass displacement.
The official highlighted a concerning rise in essential medicine prices. Black market purchases from neighbouring countries like South Sudan and Chad have driven prices to exorbitant levels.
In a desperate plea, he urged both parties to prioritize peace and open humanitarian corridors to deliver aid and medicine to El Fasher’s residents. This, he stressed, is critical to prevent a hunger-induced catastrophe.
(ST)