Sudan: Rival RSF leader expresses commitment to allow delivery of aid to affected citizens

The commander of Sudan’s paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF), Mohamed Hamdan Dagalo (Hemedti), says the door is open to humanitarian organisations to deliver aid to millions of Sudanese affected by the war that has brought the country to its knees for several months.

Mohamed Hamdan Daglo disclosed this in a conversation with the UN under-secretary-general for humanitarian affairs and emergency relief coordinator, Martin Griffins.

The leader of the RSF noted that he was ready to fast-track “collaboration and coordination… to ensure a seamless provision of aid to those affected”.

He promised to “to safeguard the aid” and ensure “ease of operations for humanitarian personnel”.

The UN official Mr Griffiths wrote on X (formerly Twitter) that he acknowledged “the urgent need for stepped up access to people in need” while speaking with the RSF commander.

Earlier in August, the RSF said it was ready to allow inflow of aid into areas under its control having formed an agency to facilitate the process.

The RSF has been accused of obstructing the delivery of humanitarian aid in the country. The force has denied the allegation.

The Sudanese army and Rapid Support Forces started fighting on April 15, after disagreements erupted over the integration of their forces in a new democratic transition.

Clashes between the two forces have forced out millions of people including foreigners and killed thousands of others.

While various governments have initiated mediation attempts, none have been successful in bringing the fighting to a halt.