Update on conflict in Sudan

For the past two years, there has been conflict in Sudan, killing thousands, displacing millions from their homes, and creating one of the world’s worst humanitarian crisis. In the past four days, the civil war has escalated further with the latest confrontation between Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) and the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) increasing fears of disruption to much-needed aid deliveries. 

Port Sudan on the Red Sea coast had been a haven for hundreds of thousands of displaced people. The city is the base of the Provincial Office of the Episcopal Church of Sudan, with Archbishop Ezekial Kondo and his team relocating there when the conflict broke out in April 2023. Port Sudan also serves as an interim seat for Sudan’s military-allied government.  

Until now, Port Sudan had avoided bombardment and was regarded as one of the safer cities in the war-torn country. Unfortunately, attacks on Port Sudan began on Sunday 4 May, after the SAF’s military base was attacked in drone strikes. In addition, the airport, the port, and a hotel were also targeted with explosions affecting power and water supply after a major power station was hit in the Sudanese city. Fires have been reported, and flights out of the airport have been cancelled.  

Hewaya and Faiza, MU Community Development Coordinators, have shared updates with Naomi Herbert, MU’s Acting Head of Literacy & Strategic Partnerships, about these drone attacks. As a result of the current conflict Hewaya and Faiza are refugees in Cairo, Egypt. They have been in contact with Epitsam, MU Coordinator in Port Sudan, who expressed her real concern that the violence would escalate further, and wreak havoc on the city that is currently a refuge to tens of thousands of displaced Sudanese citizens.  

Pray for Sudan?  

Our sisters and brothers in Sudan, particularly in Port Sudan, would appreciate us praying for them, and for peace at this time. Use the following prayer pointers:   

• For an end to this conflict, with no more destruction and deaths 

• For aid and provisions to reach people and communities in the greatest need 

• For strength and resources for the people who are displaced, that they may find safety, shelter, and a place to call home 

• For healing of trauma and mental health concerns, particularly the people who have lost family, friends and loved ones in the war 

May your comfort be felt by all those affected, and may you multiply their limited resources to meet the great needs they face.  
Amen.