Hafiza documents her mother's death amid Sudan's civil war

The ongoing civil war in Sudan has severely impacted the lives of countless individuals, especially in the Darfur region. Since the conflict began two years ago, el-Fasher, the last major city in Darfur controlled by the Sudanese army, has been under siege by the Rapid Support Forces (RSF). This situation has led to tragic outcomes for many families, including that of a young woman named Hafiza, who lost her mother during this period of violence. Her mother was killed by RSF artillery, and Hafiza has detailed her experiences through messages shared via one of the phones smuggled into the area by the BBC. Hafiza, now 21, has worked tirelessly to support displaced individuals in her community, distributing essential supplies like blankets and water while also assisting at a community kitchen. Yet despite her efforts, daily life in el-Fasher is fraught with challenges. Manahel, another local resident, expressed the dire situation, where basic necessities are often priced beyond the reach of many, forcing residents to rely on a single meal per day. The RSF has been widely condemned for its actions against non-Arab groups in various parts of Darfur, and numerous eyewitness accounts have recorded heinous acts, including gang rapes and massacres. According to reports, as many as 15,000 people were killed in el-Geneina alone during the last year. The RSF's leadership has denied these accusations, asserting that civilians are complicit in the fighting by remaining in war zones. Eventually, in November 2024, Hafiza, along with other residents like Mostafa and Manahel, found life in el-Fasher unbearable and made the decision to leave, seeking safety in nearby towns. The situation in Sudan remains precarious, leaving many to wonder when, if ever, this war will reach a resolution.