Sudan’s military, supported by its allies, has confirmed this January 15 that it has retaken the strategic city of Wad Madani from the rebel Rapid Support Forces (RSF), over a year after it fell to the rebels. The city, located in Gezira province, had served as a refuge for displaced families in the early months of the conflict.
The war in Sudan began on the 15th April 2023, when tensions between the military and the RSF erupted into open fighting in Khartoum and across the country. The conflict has led to over 28,000 deaths, forced millions to flee their homes, and triggered severe famine in some regions.
Atrocities, including ethnic killings and rape, have been reported, with the United Nations and human rights groups condemning the violence. The International Criminal Court is investigating allegations of war crimes and crimes against humanity. The US government has accused the RSF of committing genocide and imposed sanctions on its leader and associated companies.
The military announced that it had entered Wad Madani early on Saturday, working to eliminate the remaining RSF forces in the city. The government hailed the city’s “liberation,” with celebrations reported in the streets.
Since the RSF captured the city in December 2023, tens of thousands of people have been displaced. However, recent setbacks for the RSF, including losses in Khartoum and other provinces, have shifted the war in favor of the military.
The war has caused the largest displacement crisis in the world, with over 14 million people – around 30% of Sudan’s population – forced to flee. Neighboring countries like Chad, Egypt, and South Sudan have taken in millions of refugees. Famine has been reported in several areas, with more regions at risk in the coming months.