Surge in Refugees as Conflict Intensifies in Sudan
The recent escalation of violence in the Sudanese town of El Fasher has significantly exacerbated the refugee situation in neighboring South Sudan. Following a deadly takeover by the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF), the humanitarian crisis has deepened, displacing more individuals and straining the region’s resources.
Reports from various media outlets, including BBC, and corroborated by satellite imagery, have verified the mass killings in El Fasher. On October 27, 2025, the RSF seized control from the Sudanese Army, resulting in the tragic loss of approximately 460 lives at a local hospital. This violence has prompted thousands more to flee, joining the millions already displaced by conflict.
In the wake of these events, Christian Aid has observed a notable increase in refugees, including those returning to South Sudan after previously fleeing its civil war. The organization’s South Sudan country director, James Wani, highlighted the urgent need for international support, stating, “It’s actually over 1 million returnees and refugees who have made it to South Sudan since the start of the conflict.”
Wani noted a surge in refugee arrivals at the Sudan-South Sudan border shortly after El Fasher’s fall, particularly in Northern Bahr el Ghazal. “There are horrific stories coming out of there,” he remarked, underscoring the dire conditions faced by the displaced.
Resources Stretched Beyond Capacity
Since the onset of the Sudanese conflict in 2023, millions have been forced to seek refuge in neighboring countries like Ethiopia, Chad, and South Sudan. The United Nations estimates that over 11 million people have been displaced, positioning Sudan as the epicenter of the world’s largest displacement crisis.
James Wani expressed concern over the overcrowding at Christian Aid’s transit facility in Renk, which is currently accommodating three times its intended capacity. “Our transit facility is hosting around 12,000 people. This is a facility meant to host around 4,000. So it’s really overflowing,” he explained, highlighting the severe shortages of shelter, food, and protection.
Wani appealed for global solidarity and assistance to address the critical needs of displaced individuals. “We really ask all people of goodwill to stand in solidarity with South Sudan, pray for us, and where possible, extend whatever material support they can,” he urged, emphasizing the pressing challenges of food insecurity, shelter, and access to clean water.
Through its Sudan Crisis Appeal, Christian Aid has been actively providing emergency cash assistance and working with local partner Coalition for Humanity (CH) to address gender-based violence, focusing on vulnerable populations like women and children.
The United Nations has condemned the recent atrocities in Sudan, with U.N. High Commissioner for Human Rights Volker Türk demanding that the RSF halt abuses against civilians. “I remind the RSF commanders of their obligations under international humanitarian law to ensure the protection of civilians and to ensure the passage of essential supplies and humanitarian assistance,” he stated.
This article was originally published by Christian Daily International.
This article was originally written by www.christianpost.com
