As Sudan marked one year of war, citizens of Central Darfur recall the conflict with a mix of sorrow and lust for peace. A year down memory lane since the outbreak of war in Sudan, residents of Central Darfur vividly remember the conflict’s events with a sense of grief and yearning for peace.
The war has resulted in the deaths and displacements of thousands of civilians. Additionally, there has been extensive destruction to state institutions, public facilities, and private properties.
On the anniversary of the outbreak of the conflict on April 15th, Radio Tamazuj sought to understand the sentiments of citizens in the city of Zalingei, the capital of Central Darfur.
Manasik Ali, a resident of Zalingei, said that peace is anchored in religious teachings and logic, adding that in the absence of peace, people’s lives become a tragedy where one cannot guarantee his livelihood, life, or the lives of their families.
Meanwhile, citizen Salwa Khamis stated that the anniversary comes when residents have tasted the woes and bitterness of conflict in all its forms.
“The war has ended all aspects of life and destroyed everything,” she said.
Salwa appeals to all Sudanese communities and political forces to unite against conflict.
Hassan Mohammed said, “Peace is the demand of every rational person, and its importance is well known. Only those with personal interests, politicians, and war brokers call for war.”
Hassan added that peace requires great courage and boldness to be negotiated so people can forget their sufferings.
Meanwhile, Muwafaq Adam, a civil activist, asked, “What have we gained after a year of war so far?”
“Let us make this a year for peace. Let us work together to stop the war and stand firm,” he added.
The war in Sudan that began a year ago between the country’s military, chaired by Gen. Abdel-Fattah Burhan, and the Rapid Support Forces, commanded by Gen. Mohammed Hamdan Dagalo, marked one year today.
The conflict has killed thousands and forced eight million people to flee their homes to safer areas inside Sudan or to neighbouring countries, according to United Nations figures.
But the precarious conditions and lack of aid are pushing Sudan to the edge of famine.