Escalating Conflict in West Darfur: Clashes and Displacement

Strategic Insights -

Tensions are rising in West Darfur, Sudan, as the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) and the Sudanese Joint Forces engage in intense battles in the Kulbus area. The conflict has resulted in the displacement of hundreds of families, with some fleeing to Chad and others taking refuge in nearby towns. The situation is further complicated by claims of rebel movements and diversionary tactics, which have led to increased scrutiny and speculation about the motivations behind the violence.

Key Takeaways:

  • The Rapid Support Forces (RSF) have deployed heavily in areas north of El Geneina, the capital of West Darfur, following battles with the Sudanese Joint Forces in Jebel Awun in Kulbus.
  • The Sudanese Joint Forces, composed of fighters from the Darfur Joint Protection Force and new recruits, have taken control of strategic areas in North Darfur, including the Sudanese-Libyan-Chadian border triangle.
  • Hundreds of families have been displaced from Kulbus and surrounding areas, with some fleeing to Chad and others seeking refuge in nearby towns.
  • The conflict has raised concerns about the nature of the forces involved and the motivations behind the violence, with some speculating that the attacks are a diversionary tactic to alleviate pressure on the besieged city of El Fasher.
  • The Joint Forces have seized control of the area north of Kutum in North Darfur, and reinforcements have arrived in the state following mass mobilization in neighboring Chad and eastern Sudan.
  • The RSF has formed a special force to protect civilians in areas under their control and secure the work of humanitarian aid organizations in coordination with the Sudanese Agency for Relief and Humanitarian Operations.

Statistics:

  • Approximately 800 families were displaced from Jebel Awum in Kulbus and 1,405 families fled from Seleia in Jebel Moon following the heavy fighting between the Joint Forces and the RSF on Monday and Tuesday.
  • Around 100 kilometres (62 miles) separate El Geneina and Kulbus, with traffic between the two areas ongoing.
  • The Chadian franc has become the main currency used in El Geneina due to its proximity to the Chadian border.
  • Hundreds of families have fled to Chad, with Chadians in Baraka reporting that they have received families from Kulbus and surrounding areas.

Sources:

  • Radio Dabanga
  • Dabangasudan.org
  • Sudan War Monitor
  • X.com (Twitter account of the Sudanese Joint Forces)
  • AllAfrica Global Media (allafrica.com)