Civil War in Sudan: Gravedigger’s Account Amidst Ongoing Conflict

Sudanese troops have regained the presidential palace in Khartoum as fighting continues against the Rapid Support Forces (RSF). The conflict severely impacts civilians, with reports of increased burial rates and significant casualties. Community members express deep sorrow and fear, highlighting the war’s lasting effects on families and society in Sudan.

The ongoing civil war in Sudan has recently escalated as Sudanese troops have successfully recaptured the presidential palace in central Khartoum from the Rapid Support Forces (RSF). This moment represents a critical turn in the conflict, as the army aims to reclaim the capital after being ousted two years ago. Amid this fighting, Sudan’s civilians continue to suffer immensely, experiencing significant loss of life, destruction, and severe human rights violations.

In recent weeks, military operations have regained control over several districts in Khartoum. The offensive is characterized by heightened troop morale, with soldiers rallying and celebrating amidst preparations for the battle. Progress has been made, with the army breaking through strategic zones held by RSF, culminating in attacks on RSF convoys attempting to withdraw. Footage released by the military highlights these engagements, emphasizing the tactical importance of the Republican Palace.

Abidin Durma, a gravedigger in Omdurman, has become a poignant symbol of the war’s impact. He articulates his commitment, referring to the ongoing conflict as “the war of dignity.” As a caretaker of a large cemetery, Mr. Durma highlights the grim reality of war, overseeing an increase in burials to as many as 50 bodies per day, as the health system collapses and safe burial practices are compromised.

Families in the region, like that of Abazar Abdel Habib, are deeply affected, with his relatives falling victim to artillery strikes. His young niece, Omnia, survived a shelling incident but has become an orphan alongside her siblings. Mourners gather regularly, expressing the indelible sorrow the war brings to their community, as daily violence mounts. The challenge of sustaining a semblance of normalcy becomes even more acute for families, compounded by the constant threat of bombing.

Women in Omdurman, impacted by the violence, engage in communal mourning and protective measures for their children, illustrating the psychological toll on future generations. Residents articulate their persistent fear and anxiety as shelling disrupts daily life. While a potential military victory in Khartoum could abate local violence, the broader conflict and its associated trauma will likely persist across Sudan for an extended period.

The civil war in Sudan continues to grab headlines as the Sudanese army regains control of significant territories in Khartoum amid severe human suffering. Gravediggers like Abidin Durma exemplify the high civilian cost of the conflict, highlighting the sobering reality of loss and trauma. While military successes could lead to localized peace, the overarching conflict threatens further instability and emotional scars throughout the nation for years to come.

Original Source: www.bbc.co.uk