Sudanese women leaders seek unity amid conflict

September 14, 2024 (KAMPALA, Uganda) — In the face of a devastating conflict marked by horrific violations against women, Sudanese women leaders are working to overcome divisions and unify their agenda for peace.

At a recent conference in Kampala organized by “The Guardians,” activists emphasized the urgent need for a ceasefire, women’s participation in political processes, and the protection of women from violence.

“Our priorities are to stop the war and protect women from violations,” Heba Ahmed Taha, a member of the Eastern Sudan Women’s Forum, told the Sudan Tribune.

The conflict in Sudan has been characterized by widespread sexual exploitation, rape, harassment, and displacement of women, according to the United Nations and human rights organizations.

Women leaders acknowledge the challenges they face, including divisions between civil society and political women, as well as the lack of acceptance and respect for differing opinions.

“It is difficult to gather all feminist opinions under one agenda,” feminist activist Aziza Awad said. “But we must gather the common ground to come up with a feminist agenda that thinks about the next phase.”

Fawzia Mohamed Ali, a member of the African Organization for Rights and Development, believes that a minimum agreement can be reached by focusing on the violations and violence women and girls are subjected to. She stressed the need to utilize U.N. Resolution 1325 on women, peace, and security and to involve women in all stages of peace processes.

Despite the challenges, there are signs of hope. Journalist and human rights advocate Madiha Abdullah noted that the conference revealed a convergence of views among different women’s groups.

“Many Sudanese women have agreed on a common action agenda,” she said. “But political disputes and partisan agendas limit the ability to work jointly.”

Women leaders are calling for a commitment to their agenda, regardless of political or societal influences. They believe that a unified women’s movement is essential to achieving peace and restoring the path of the December Revolution.