Aid Routes Secured for Sudan Amidst Peace Talks Setbacks

Humanitarian Aid Access

The recent peace talks in Geneva have led to agreements on improving humanitarian aid access in Sudan. Mediators have identified two key routes for aid delivery: one via the Adre border crossing with Chad into Darfur, and another along Dabbah Road from Port Sudan on the Red Sea. Additional progress was noted towards opening another route through Sennar Junction.

Challenges and Setbacks

Despite this progress, the Sudanese army’s absence from the talks has slowed efforts to resolve the 16-month conflict between the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) and the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) paramilitary group. Mediators, including representatives from Saudi Arabia, Egypt, and the UAE, have expressed frustration at the army’s lack of participation, which has hindered broader peace negotiations.

Humanitarian Crisis

The humanitarian crisis in Sudan is severe, with 10.7 million people displaced and tens of thousands dead. The World Food Programme has declared an emergency, with 25.6 million people facing acute hunger and famine confirmed in parts of Darfur.

Diplomatic Reactions

U.S. Sudan envoy Tom Perriello acknowledged the limited scope of the talks but remained hopeful for future progress. Cameron Hudson from the Center for Strategic and International Studies noted the need for stronger international pressure to ensure compliance and effective aid delivery.

Commitments and Future Prospects

The mediators have also secured a commitment from the RSF to prevent violations such as violence against civilians and attacks on aid operations. However, the absence of a formal delegation from the Sudanese army continues to impede significant advancements in the peace process.