People flee for survival amid horrific conditions in Sudan
- Tens of thousands of people fled the Zamzam camp near el-Fasher due to RSF attacks, facing a perilous journey to Tawila.
- Many displaced people are dying from thirst and injuries during their escape, with horrific stories of violence reported.
- The humanitarian crisis in Sudan, described as one of the world's worst, has left Tawila struggling to support a massive influx of displaced individuals.
In Sudan's western region of Darfur, people are facing extreme hardships as they flee violence and destruction. Recently, the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) attacked the Zamzam camp near el-Fasher, resulting in the displacement of tens of thousands of residents. Many of these individuals had already endured two decades in the camp after escaping previous conflicts. The situation worsened as they attempted to escape to Tawila, embarking on a perilous journey of about 40 kilometers (25 miles) during blistering heat. Reports indicate that numerous people have died from thirst or injuries sustained during their flight from the camp. Witness accounts and reports from aid agencies highlight the dire conditions faced by these displaced individuals. Families are resorting to consuming leaves and even charcoal in a desperate attempt to survive. The Norwegian Refugee Council's head of operations, Noah Taylor, pointed out that some individuals are dying upon arrival in Tawila due to exhaustion and lack of resources. He mentioned horrific stories of violence, including women being raped during their journey to safety. As the influx of people seeking refuge continues, Tawila is struggling to accommodate the overwhelming number of displaced individuals, estimated at around 130,000 to 150,000. Medical resources and food supplies are limited, exacerbating the already dire humanitarian crisis. North Darfur Health Minister Ibrahim Khater reported that the Zamzam camp has been completely destroyed, hindering the ability of fleeing residents to return home or access shelter and assistance. The ongoing conflict between the RSF and the Sudanese army has resulted in widespread chaos, with millions displaced and tens of thousands dead in the last two years. This humanitarian crisis has drawn attention from various aid agencies, which describe it as one of the worst in the world. The RSF has acknowledged attacking the camp but has denied committing atrocities, creating a stark divide in narratives regarding the conflict and its impact on the civilian population.