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One man’s story inside the siege of El Fasher, Sudan

by The Guardian

Today in Focus

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Today in Focus

This episode is titled:

One man’s story inside the siege of El Fasher, Sudan

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Notable Quotes

"We live in hope that this nightmare will one day end."
"He was a voice for the voiceless."
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Episode Summary

This episode of Today in Focus delves into the tragic events surrounding the siege of El Fasher in Sudan, which recently fell to the paramilitary group Rapid Support Forces (RSF) after an 18-month siege. The capture of this city effectively partitions Sudan and expands the RSF's control over Darfur. The host, Annie Kelly, discusses the devastating human toll of the conflict, which has seen over 150,000 deaths and millions displaced, emphasizing the desperate conditions relief groups are attempting to address amidst ongoing violence.

Central to the episode is the story of Mohamed Duda, a community spokesperson from Zamzam, a displacement camp. His brave efforts to support his community by providing food, water, and medical care are outlined, showcasing his dedication despite personal risk. Mohamed's situation worsens as the RSF conducts large-scale attacks in Zamzam, leading to the deaths of many civilians, including healthcare workers. Mohamed himself was wounded during an attack but managed to escape to El Fasher, a city under siege by the RSF.

The narrative vividly captures the unbearable daily life in El Fasher, illustrating Mohamed's grim updates about hunger, bombardment, and the hopelessness of the residents. His messages communicated the dire circumstances they faced, often discussing the constant fear from drones and artillery as well as the community's reliance on scarce resources for survival. The emotional weight of these communications is palpable as the journalist recounts his worries about Mohamed's safety as the conflict escalated.

Ultimately, the segment reveals the devastating outcome of Mohamed's efforts and his tragic death amidst the chaos. The episode concludes with reflections on his legacy as a voice for the voiceless, highlighting the impact of his loss on the community. Experts also discuss the implications of El Fasher's fall, signaling a critical moment in the broader conflict and raising questions about international involvement and potential resolutions.

Key Takeaways

  • The siege of El Fasher has led to a humanitarian catastrophe in Sudan, resulting in extensive suffering and displacement.
  • Mohamed Duda personified the struggle for survival and solidarity within his community amid a violent civil war, risking his life to provide aid.
  • The fall of El Fasher to the RSF marks a significant shift in Sudan's civil war, entrenching the de facto partition of the country.

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