Since the conflict in Sudan erupted in April 2023, it has claimed tens of thousands of lives and displaced over 11 million people. In a press conference at the Sudanese Embassy in South Africa on Monday, November 11, embassy officials condemned the “new massacres by the RSF” in central Sudan and urged neighboring countries to step up support for General Abdel Fattah al-Burhan’s Army.
Nawal Ahmed Mukhtar Ahmed, Chargé d’Affaires of the Sudanese Embassy in Pretoria, voiced deep concern about recent violence in the Al-Jazeera region. “Innocent people are being killed; no one should accept this!” she declared, referencing reported attacks by the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF), under General Mohamed Hamdan Dagalo, known as “Hemedti.” She called for a coordinated response, asserting, “Regional powers must understand that Sudan’s challenges affect the entire region, requiring shared solutions.”
The conflict is already under review by the UN Security Council, which convened urgently two weeks prior to assess risks of escalation. South African Foreign Minister Ronald Lamola has advocated for a diplomatic solution, emphasizing dialogue but avoiding a stance in favor of either party. This neutral position prompted Nawal Ahmed Mukhtar Ahmed to push for a firmer commitment. “South Africa is encouraging peace talks among Sudanese parties, but we are urging them to go further and condemn RSF actions,” she stated.
Foreign Minister Lamola is expected to clarify South Africa’s foreign policy position on Tuesday, November 12, which may define its future role in the Sudan crisis.