Women, girls face widespread sexual violence in Al Jazirah conflict

November 19, 2024 (AL JAZIRAH State) – Reports of rampant sexual violence against women and girls are emerging from Sudan’s Al Jazirah state, where ongoing conflict has displaced more than 135,000 people. Healthcare workers and counsellors are documenting horrific abuses, including the rape and sexual assault of females ranging in age from 6 to 60.

The fighting, which began on Oct. 20, has claimed the lives of over 100 people and severely disrupted access to healthcare. UNFPA, the United Nations sexual and reproductive health agency, reports that a significant number of women and girls are missing from displacement camps. Some are feared to have been abducted or killed.

Survivors who reached neighbouring states describe harrowing ordeals. Some witnessed women committing suicide to escape being raped by armed men. Others recounted how family members gave them knives and instructed them to kill themselves rather than be subjected to sexual violence. The stigma surrounding rape is so profound that many survivors remain in hiding, fearing for their safety and rejection by their communities.

“Survivors of sexual violence are running away and hiding because their families have threatened to end their lives to wash away dishonour,” said a counsellor in Gedaref, who asked not to be named for safety reasons.

The conflict has also triggered widespread displacement and suffering. Families have been attacked and robbed, forcing them to undertake perilous journeys to find safety. Many have perished from thirst or exhaustion along the way.

UNFPA assists survivors critically, including medical treatment, psychosocial counselling, and safe spaces. However, escalating violence and insecurity are hindering efforts to reach all those in need. With funding from international donors, UNFPA has deployed mobile health teams and delivered essential supplies to hospitals. Still, more resources are urgently required to ensure that women and girls affected by this crisis receive the life-saving support they need.