Introduction:

A brutal civil war that began in April 2023 engulfed Sudan by April 2024, pitting the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF), led by General Abdel Fattah al-Burhan, against the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF), commanded by General Mohamed Hamdan Dagalo (Hemeti). The conflict has resulted in a devastating humanitarian crisis, extensive destruction, and significant civilian casualties. Despite previous peace agreements and efforts to achieve a political transition, Sudan’s stability remains undermined by rival armies, ethnic conflicts, and a struggle for control over the nation’s abundant resources.

The roots of this civil war lie in decades of ethnic discord, economic disparity, and governmental instability. Following months of popular uprisings, longtime ruler Omar al-Bashir was overthrown in 2019, initiating a fragile transitional phase aimed at steering Sudan towards democratic governance. However, this power-sharing arrangement between the military and civilian leaders collapsed when the military, under General al-Burhan, staged a coup in 2021 to consolidate power.

Once allies of the military during Bashir’s regime, the RSF grew increasingly powerful under Hemeti, who sought greater influence within Sudan’s political landscape. An uneasy alliance between al-Burhan and Hemeti eventually deteriorated due to disagreements over military integration, governance, and control of the country. These tensions erupted into open conflict in April 2024, with violence spreading rapidly to urban centers like Khartoum, the Darfur region, and other parts of Sudan.

Key Stakeholders: Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF), General Abdel Fattah al-Burhan, Rapid Support Forces (RSF), General Mohamed Hamdan Dagalo (Hemeti).

Current Situation:

The current situation of the Sudanese civil war remains dire, marked by widespread violence, a deteriorating humanitarian crisis, and escalating instability. Fierce clashes between the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) and the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) continue unabated, devastating urban centers like Khartoum and extending to conflict-prone regions such as Darfur. Civilians bear the brunt of the war, with millions displaced internally and across borders, facing dire shortages of food, water, and medical supplies. Essential infrastructure has been destroyed, and law and order have collapsed, further deepening the crisis. The conflict shows no signs of resolution, as both General Abdel Fattah al-Burhan and General Mohamed Hamdan Dagalo (Hemeti) remain entrenched in their struggle for power, resisting diplomatic interventions and ceasefire efforts. Sudan’s diverse ethnic communities, already marginalized, face intensified violence, while the lack of economic opportunities and weak institutions compound the suffering of the population. The war threatens to spill over into neighboring regions, creating a growing regional security challenge

Major Geopolitical Implication: The conflict in Sudan has displaced millions of people, both internally and across borders, creating a significant refugee crisis. This has placed immense pressure on neighboring countries, threatening regional stability and requiring coordinated efforts to manage the influx of refugees.

Major Geostrategic Implication: The struggle between al-Burhan and Hemeti revolves around control of Sudan’s abundant natural resources, including oil and gold. The ongoing conflict disrupts access to and management of these resources, which are critical not only to Sudan’s economy but also to the interests of international actors relying on these commodities.

Economic Impact:

The economic impact of the conflict in Sudan, as detailed in the report, includes the destruction of infrastructure, disruption of economic opportunities, and the collapse of law and order. The fight for control over Sudan’s natural resources, such as oil and gold, further exacerbates the economic instability. Additionally, marginalized groups in outlying areas suffer disproportionately due to systemic injustices and a lack of development, while the broader population faces dire economic prospects amid ongoing violence.

Perceived Future Outlook:

Future outlook for Sudan appears grim, with the situation at a critical turning point as of 2024. The continuation of violence, the deep-rooted issues of governance, economic disparity, and ethnic divisions, as well as the failure of peace negotiations, leave Sudan’s future uncertain.

Conclusion: A devastating battle with severe humanitarian, economic, and regional repercussions, the Sudanese civil war was sparked by the rivalry between the Sudanese Armed Forces and the Rapid Support Forces. With millions of lives at risk and Sudan’s future uncertain, the situation is at a turning point as of 2024. There are many obstacles in the way of peace, but in order to stop the violence and promote long-term stability, international intervention, diplomatic pressure, and a dedication to humanitarian help are crucial. In addition to tackling the root causes of the violence, such as governance, economic disparity, and ethnic divisions, the international community must give priority to efforts to promote peace.