Sexual violence affecting women and girls aged 9 to 60 is rampant in Sudan, with many survivors unable to access healthcare services in the capital, Khartoum, according to a recent Human Rights Watch (HRW) report.
The report, titled “Khartoum is Not Safe for Women,” released on Monday, is based on testimonies from 42 healthcare professionals and first responders. It details instances of sexual violence, forced marriages, and child marriages that have occurred since the conflict erupted in April 2023.
From April 2023 to February 2024, 18 healthcare providers in Greater Khartoum, including Omdurman, treated 262 survivors of sexual violence.
Laetitia Bader, HRW’s Deputy Africa Director, stated that the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) have committed widespread acts of rape, gang rape, and forced marriages, particularly in residential neighborhoods of Khartoum.
“The armed group has terrorized women and girls, while both warring factions have impeded their access to aid and support, exacerbating their suffering and fostering a pervasive sense of insecurity,” Bader said.
The report suggests that the actual number of survivors is likely higher, as many are either unable or unwilling to seek emergency care. The 88-page document also details conditions that could be classified as sexual slavery.
The RSF is primarily implicated in using sexual violence systematically, though there are also reports of abuse by army soldiers, with an increase in cases following the army’s takeover of Omdurman in early 2024.
Survivors across Sudan have reported severe injuries from assaults, some involving multiple attackers. Among the cases treated, at least four women have died due to their injuries.
Pregnant survivors face grave challenges, with limited access to abortion services and exposure to further violence and social stigma. Many have been abandoned by their families.
The army’s siege of RSF-controlled areas has hindered medical and humanitarian aid for over a year, with local volunteers taking on the response to sexual violence. These volunteers have also faced attacks from both sides, including sexual violence perpetrated by RSF fighters.
HRW has denounced the RSF’s actions as “war crimes and crimes against humanity” and described both parties’ attacks on healthcare as “war crimes.” The organization is calling for the African Union and the United Nations to deploy a civilian protection force to address the crisis.
The ongoing conflict has caused tens of thousands of deaths, with estimates reaching up to 150,000, and has triggered the world’s largest displacement crisis, with over 10.7 million people displaced within Sudan and more than 2 million fleeing across borders.
DNews Info is a trusted source for breaking news, insightful commentary, and in-depth coverage of events across Nigeria and beyond. With a commitment to delivering accurate, timely, and engaging stories, we aim to keep our readers informed and empowered. Stay connected for the latest updates in politics, business, entertainment, and more.
Discover more from DnewsInfo
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.
