The deepening crisis in Sudan’s Wad Madani has raised concerns over increasing forced displacement.

Development Diaries reports that Wad Madani, the state capital of El Gezira, has become the battleground for Sudan’s warring parties for the third consecutive day.

Fighting broke out in the morning of 15 December, 2023, between the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) and the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) on the outskirts of Wad Madani, located 136 km southeast of the capital Khartoum, with sporadic shootings heard on 15 and 16 December in various areas.

According to the International Organisation for Migration (IOM)’s Displacement Tracking Matrix (DTM), approximately 14,000-15,000 people have been displaced.

It is understood that internal transportation challenges and rising ticket prices are exacerbating the current exodus.

Also, the growing conflict, constant power outages, and communication breakdowns have contributed to the increasing humanitarian crisis.

Neighbouring states have seen a significant movement of people fleeing the violence in Wad Madani, with activists reporting a sharp increase in medicines and medical equipment prices, along with long queues at petrol stations.

Wad Madani has served as a hub for humanitarian operations since fighting broke out in April this year between the SAF and the RSF.

Development Diaries reiterates its call on the Sudanese authorities and all parties to the conflict to ensure that civilians are protected as enshrined in international humanitarian laws. We also call for the immediate and unconditional release of all those held captive.

Photo source: Dabanga