Source: www.csw.org.uk
Date: April 20, 2024
‘We need everyone’s solidarity and prayers to the Lord for saving the Christians in Sudan and giving them peace and reassurance.’ (Reverend Yahia Nalu, Chairman of the Sudan Presbyterian Evangelical Synod)
This week marked one year since war broke out between the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) and the Rapid Support Forces (RSF). As the conflict enters its second year, few places in the country have been spared the large-scale hostilities between the two groups, and its impact on civilians has been catastrophic.
The war has claimed the lives of at least 13,000 people, and more than 33,000 have been injured. The number facing hunger is now estimated to be as high as 20 million.
Sudan remains both a refugee-producing and refugee-hosting nation. The number of internally displaced persons (IDPs) has risen to more than nine million, and there are over two million refugees, half of them Darfuri.
Tragically, for the second time in 20 years, there are credible reports of ethnic cleansing in Darfur that may amount to atrocity crimes.
The time for urgent action is now. The humanitarian crisis is deepening and the immediate needs of the population must be met.
In summary, please pray:
- For a concerted global effort to bring an end to the conflict.
- For healing for women and girls who have been victims of sexual and gender-based violence during the conflict.
That the Lord would strengthen and provide for those who remain in Sudan, and those who have been forced to flee – including Christians and others who may be vulnerable because of their religion or belief. - That the United Nations fact-finding mission receives sufficient resources to enable it to bring to light the currently unseen suffering, and to contribute significantly towards justice and accountability.
- That Sudan would finally be free from cycles of war, destruction and unjust leaders.