Journalists from the BBC were able to gain access to the front line of Sudan’s civil war, where they witnessed firsthand the devastation and violence that has plagued the country. Civilians caught in the conflict shared harrowing stories of rape, ethnic violence, and street executions.
The United Nations has warned that Sudan is facing one of the worst humanitarian crises in recent history, with fears of a massive hunger crisis looming. In Darfur, where a genocide was declared by the US 20 years ago, there are concerns that history may be repeating itself.
Our team found the city of Omdurman transformed into a wasteland, with most vehicles on the roads belonging to the military. The ongoing power struggle between the Sudanese army and the Rapid Support Forces has resulted in thousands of deaths and widespread destruction.
Women who fled from Darfur to Chad recounted stories of rape and violence at the hands of militiamen. The BBC team, embedded with the army in Omdurman, faced high tensions and strict controls on their movements.
Despite the recent gains by the Sudanese army in Omdurman, the sound of gunfire can still be heard in the area. The military has been criticized for its heavy use of aerial bombing, leading to civilian casualties.
Residents of Omdurman accused the RSF of looting, violence, and sexual assaults during their control of the area. Women like Afaf Muhammad Salem shared their traumatic experiences of being attacked and violated by fighters.
In refugee camps in Chad, emerging testimonies of sexual violence are forcing a new level of openness about the atrocities being committed in Sudan. Survivors like Amina, who sought an abortion after being raped by militia members, are speaking out despite the stigma and shame.
The UN has documented numerous cases of conflict-related sexual violence, with the RSF and allied militias being responsible for a majority of the attacks. The situation in Sudan remains dire, with civilians bearing the brunt of the violence and suffering.