Sudan: Ongoing war in Sudan slows progress in disputed Abyei region

The ongoing conflict between rival armies in Sudan has paralyzed progress towards determining the final status of the disputed oil-rich Abyei region, which straddles the border between Sudan and South Sudan, the chief said on Tuesday. of UN peace operations.

Despite these challenges, the UN remains ready to support both sides, in close collaboration with the African Union, once they resume political negotiations, said Jean-Pierre Lacroix, briefing ambassadors at the Security Council.

Intercommunal tensions

The situation in Sudan has also exacerbated intercommunal tensions in Abyei, highlighted by recent clashes over cattle theft that led to multiple deaths between the Miseriya and Nuer communities.

“Over the weekend, UNISFA held a meeting with Misseriya, Nuer and Ngok Dinka representatives to provide support for the peaceful resolution of the conflict. At a time when tensions are high, political support for dialogue between the Nuer and other Abyei communities is essential“added Mr. Lacroix.

Deputy Secretary General Lacroix briefs the Security Council.Humanitarian challenges

He said humanitarian conditions in Abyei are deteriorating and the region faces a shortage of essential goods and services. This crisis is exacerbated by the influx of people fleeing the conflict in Sudan.

Despite the volatile security climate, which continues to impact their operations, UN agencies and their partners are committed to providing the necessary assistance.

“Four off-duty humanitarian staff were killed during the escalation of fighting in late January and early February, and an estimated 20,000 people in Abyei were displaced during this period,” he added.

In the same period, two UN peacekeepers also died in hostile acts.

“We strongly condemn the attacks that led to their deaths. and we express our sincere condolences to the families of those who lost their lives,” Lacroix said, calling on authorities to investigate and hold the perpetrators accountable.

The consequences of the Sudan crisis

Special Envoy Tetteh briefed the Security Council. Hanna Tetteh, Special Envoy of the Secretary-General for the Horn of Africa, also briefed the Security Council, echoing Mr. Lacroix’s concerns about the political, economic and humanitarian consequences of the crisis in Sudan. , especially affecting South Sudan.

“The influx of more than 630,000 refugees and returnees from Sudan has Greater pressure on the population’s limited access to food, water and basic health services. due to years of armed conflict, violence between communities and environmental crises,” he stated.

Economic problems in South Sudan

Due to the ongoing conflict, South Sudan’s oil production and export, which depends on transit through Sudan, has been suspended since early February following incidents involving the Sudanese paramilitary Rapid Support Force (RSF) in the White Nile state.

Ms Tetteh told ambassadors that the resumption of South Sudan’s oil exports remains unlikely within two months, despite an announcement by Sudanese authorities.

“The serious disruption of oil supplies, the flooding of oil fields and the uncertain security situation in the Red Sea have exacerbated an already serious economic situation in South Sudan,” she said.