The US has declared genocide in Sudan amid brutal civil war, marking the second time in two decades the term has been used for the country.
On 7 January, Secretary of State Antony Blinken sanctioned Mohamed Hamdan Dagalo, leader of the Rapid Support Forces, for orchestrating systematic atrocities, including mass killings and sexual violence against civilians, especially targeting ethnic groups.
This comes as Sudan faces a dire humanitarian crisis, with over 638,000 people facing famine and millions displaced.
The war, which began in April 2023 between RSF and the Sudan Armed Forces, has led to over 24,000 deaths and widespread suffering.
Church leaders in Sudan have remained cautious about publicly commenting on the genocide declaration, fearing it could harm their ability to provide aid.
Father Andrew Kaufa of AMECEA urged that humanitarian access be prioritized to help the suffering population.
In addition to famine, Sudan is battling a cholera outbreak, with over 5,000 cases reported.
Despite the US sanctions targeting one faction, Blinken emphasised that both sides share responsibility for the violence. International and church efforts continue to urge an end to the conflict and to address the urgent humanitarian crisis.
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