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This Is How Sudanese People Are Currently Navigating Through An Internal Armed Conflict And Making The Best Out Of Limited Resources

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Starting Saturday, April 15, a series of armed confrontations have escalated between the Sudan Armed Forces (SAF) and the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) due to unresolved tensions and disagreements over a power struggle for leadership of the country. 

The violence broke out in several parts of the country, trickling into the triangular capital city of Khartoum through a series of intense airstrikes that have persisted throughout the week. This has led to the entrapment of civilians within their homes, schools and other structures without access to essential resources such as water, food, internet and even electricity.

Clear instructions and strong warnings have been issued, advising individuals to remain at home and avoid becoming trapped in the crossfire.

As the armed conflict continues into its second week, we have compiled a list of resources that are valuable to those who are closely watching the details of this war taking place. 

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Eid celebrations this year went very differently

This year, Eid celebrations have looked very different for Sudanese people all over the world. At a time when many Sudanese families should be celebrating the end of the Holy Month of Ramadan, they are instead living in terror.

 

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A post shared by Mounir Khalil (@mounir_hk)

Airports have been shut down and all flights to Sudan have been suspended until further notice

Terrors around the country are continuing for a second week

Wildlife is currently at risk

The animals at Sudan Animal Rescue currently lack food and resources, but also access to water. The ongoing armed conflict has made it difficult and organisations have been urged to take action and provide assistance during this time of crisis.

In the meantime, concerned individuals can still reach out to the sanctuary at +249 121 488 808/ +249 929 354 442 to support their efforts to provide basic necessities to helpless animals.

Healthcare & Medical Assistance

It is essential for civilians to be aware of healthcare and medical solutions that they can use during this time. Access to medical facilities and services have been limited, so it is important to be prepared.

 

Some tips for taking care of oneself include remaining in a safe place, staying hydrated, and getting adequate rest. It is also important to have a basic first aid kit and know how to use it.

In addition, it is recommended to have a list of emergency contacts and know how to access medical care in case of an emergency. By taking these steps, civilians can be better equipped to take care of themselves and others in challenging situations.

If You Need To Talk

SAPA Telehealth Clinics are available for Sudanese individuals who are currently sheltered in place due to the clashes between the RSF and SAF. These clinics are being operated by SAPA physicians from all major subspecialties and represent a significant effort to compensate for the loss of healthcare facilities and the lack of safe passages for receiving needed care.

 

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A post shared by SAPA (@sudanese_american_physicians)

Another alternative

DoctorBase is a mobile app that provides free online consultations with medical doctors, pharmacists, psychologists, and psychiatrists. The app is a convenient resource for those seeking medical advice and is also available to download for free on the app store by visiting this link.

Life-saving techniques

Knowing techniques such as CPR and injury reactions is critical during these times. In situations where access to medical care may be limited or delayed, these techniques can significantly increase an individual’s chances of survival.

By having knowledge of these techniques, individuals can be better equipped to respond to medical emergencies in the absence of immediate medical care.

Pharmacies to contact

We have compiled a list of pharmacies around the city that are currently open and can offer delivery services. We’re hoping that with the help of these resources, individuals can access pharmacies, and try to locate the necessary medications and medical supplies they need.

  1. AlRawda Pharmacy – Omdurman, Al Wade Street – 0117967700
  2. Denon Pharmacy – Kafouri, Block 8 – 0917777922 (Open 24/7)
  3. Farma Land – Alazhari, Facing Al Azhari Hospital – 0112666198
  4. Faroug Pharmacy – Kafouri Block 8 – 0964111238
  5. Four Season Pharmacy – Bahry, Maouna Street – 0912320904
  6. Mustafa Suliman Pharmacy – Airport Street, Next to Awlad Omdurman – 091019670
  7. Ronza Pharmacy – Nasir Extension – 0120220000 (Open 24/7)

Molly Bazaar has also put together a directory of phone numbers for civilians to contact if they need to find an open pharmacy, a midwife, psychological therapy, medical consultations, and open hospitals around the triangular city. You’re advised to filter it out by your needs and then try the options. Click here.

Well-being resources

Living through a war can be a traumatic experience, and it’s important to prioritise your mental well-being during such times. Here are some mental resources that can help you stay positive and maintain a sense of control:

  • Stay connected with loved ones: Talking to family and friends can help reduce feelings of isolation and provide a sense of comfort and support.
  • Practise mindfulness: Engage in activities that promote mindfulness, such as yoga, meditation, or deep breathing exercises. These practices can help reduce stress and promote feelings of calmness. Art therapy is also a wonderful way to help reduce stress.
  • Seek professional help: If you’re experiencing symptoms of anxiety, depression, or other mental health concerns, it’s important to seek professional help. Many organisations provide mental health services, and reaching out for help is a sign of strength. AskD&R Psychologists are also giving out free online sessions for all those affected on Saturdays and Sundays from 10am to 8pm.

 

 

 

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A post shared by MINDSET THERAPY™ (@mindset.therapy)

Food Supplies and Groceries

It can be difficult for civilians to find a reliable source of essentials, however, supermarkets in Sudan are stepping up by operating during these times to allow people to get their day-to-day necessities without having to travel too far and risk their safety. Here are some we’ve put together:

  1. Al Moalem Supermarket – Riyadh, Khartoum – 0916606464 / 0916030755
  2. Dukkan Wahba – Bahri – 0121666401
  3. Hypermarket Mtero – Kafouri – 0123007556
  4. Alahsan Shambat – Shambat, Al Maouna Street – 01909374719
  5. Wad Mardi – Al Klakla – 0912102984

 

This meal-prep business is supporting as well

 

 

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A post shared by Get Fit Sudan (@lets_get_fit_sudan)

Extra support

Sudanese civilians are urged to lean on such resources as much as possible – this online humanitarian platform is helping connect displaced individuals with nearby host families.

Interested patrons can also sign-up as a host to support these individuals who are fleeing from a nearby crisis.

British nationals should register their presence in the country

The same goes for any U.S citizens on the ground

Any Kenyan nationals can contact these numbers

Staying connected

Internet connectivity and mobile data services are crucial resources for people living in a conflict zone, as they provide access to vital information, communication with loved ones, and even emergency services. Unfortunately, in many areas affected by the conflict, access to these resources has become severely limited.

 

Infrastructure damage, power outages, and intentional shutdowns by authorities have all contributed to the disruption of internet and mobile data services. As a result, people on the ground are finding it increasingly difficult to stay connected and informed. This lack of accessibility has made an already challenging situation even more difficult for those trying to navigate the conflict.

Telecommunications have been down with bad signals

Another way to top up data

Fortunately, there is an alternative way to top up data for loved ones in Sudan from abroad using Airalo.com’s eSIM packages. The recipient of the data transfer in Sudan does not need to have access to the website, but will only need an initial connection to complete the set-up.

 

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A post shared by Mandour Jr. (@mandourjr)

WHAT YOU CAN DO TO HELP NOW

Readers can help ensure that basic needs are being met through the promotion of peacebuilding initiatives through dialogue, providing psychological support, advocacy efforts to raise awareness and taking action by immediately donating to help provide assistance to those affected.

It is crucial to stay informed and connected to activists online who can provide updates on the situation and ways to support those in need. Social media platforms, citizen journalists, and humanitarian organisations can be valuable sources of information and resources for individuals looking to make a difference.

By staying up-to-date with the latest updates and developments, people can learn about the most pressing needs and opportunities to offer support. This may include donations, volunteering time or skills, or advocating for policy changes that can help alleviate suffering and promote peace. By working together and staying connected online, people can make a real difference in the lives of those affected by armed conflict.

STAYING INFORMED

Staying up to date with regular hashtags such as #KeepEyesOnSudan and #SudanUpdates will help people come across important information about access to medical facilities and supplies around the country. It’s important to always keep a look out and follow recommended pages to stay safe during this time, as well as understand what is happening on the ground.

 

APPLY THE PRESSURE

Emailing your local representative can be a way to express your concerns about the current armed conflict and to apply pressure for organisations to get involved.

In the UK, you can find your local MP (Member of Parliament) by entering your postcode on the Parliament website, in the US, you can find your local representative by entering your zip code on the House of Representatives website or the Senate website, and in Canada, you can find your local MP by entering your postal code on the Parliament of Canada website.

Once you have identified your MP, you can send an email expressing your concerns and urging them to take action. Letter templates can be found on sudancoup.com – you can use this as a reference!

 

EMPOWER LOCAL COMMUNITIES

A non-governmental, non-profit charitable organisation led by ambitious youths whose projects have been designed to provide socio-economic support and empower the community to solve its own problems, Fill A Heart, will be raising funds for affected families on their GoFundMe.

 

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A post shared by FILL A HEART (@fillaheart_fah)

CRITICAL MEDICAL AID AND HUMANITARIAN SUPPORT

A Sudanese-American coalition of medical professionals, that has been offering aid across Sudan since 2019, is equipped with the capacity to respond swiftly and efficiently to crises happening to the people of Sudan.

With their teams already on the ground and ready to supply essential medical resources to those impacted by the violence, you can support their work by donating here.

 

 

 

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A post shared by SAPA (@sudanese_american_physicians)

YOUTH EFFORTS FROM THE UK

A group of Sudanese societies and universities based in the UK have collaborated to create an aid initiative, with the goal to provide crucial and life-saving aid to Sudan during times of war-related emergencies.

These donations will be received by The Sudanese Doctors Trade Union and the International Hospital in Sudan to prevent any more casualties from happening.

The link to donate is here. For their daily updates on hospitals that are in a critical state and need your help, watch these stories. 

 

 

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A post shared by Women of Sudan (@womenofsudan)

URGENT DOCTOR APPEAL

Those wishing to donate can do so on Paypal or via Bank Transfer to The Union account number referenced below.

DONATING TO ISLAMIC RELIEF

Islamic Relief is also closely monitoring the situation and gearing up to support hospitals and provide essential aid such as food as soon as the volatile situation allows.

Having worked in Sudan since 1984, their teams are on the ground and ready to respond as soon as they are in a position to do so. The link to donate can be found here.

 

 

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A post shared by Islamic Relief UK (@islamicreliefuk)

AMPLIFYING SUDANESE VOICES

Joining protests and amplifying Sudanese voices can be an effective way to spread awareness about the conflict in Sudan and support the nation. The situation in Sudan has been marked by violence, political instability, and economic hardship, and raising awareness about these issues can help to bring attention to the situation and potentially lead to solutions.

One way to amplify these voices is to get involved with local advocacy groups or organisations that are working to support Sudanese causes. These groups may organise rallies, marches, or other events to raise awareness about the conflict and put pressure on governments and international organisations to take immediate action. 

 

EVEN THOSE ABROAD CAN GET INVOLVED!

EVACUATING THE CITY

As the conflict continues in the city of Khartoum, many people are evacuating to safer areas in the countryside or nearby cities. While there are many routes to take, some may be unsafe due to the ongoing fighting.

It’s important to plan every detail before embarking on the journey and to seek help from the community to ensure safety. It’s also important to avoid any aggression with soldiers and to be aware of their presence to prevent any unnecessary confrontations.

Leaving the country

A number of civilians have shared their detailed experiences of travelling out of Khartoum via road to Egypt. The trip will take approximately 38 hours.

Individuals will need to make sure that they are carrying a valid passport and a yellow fever card. Only men of Sudanese nationality between the ages of 18 to 50 will need a visa before crossing, but if you have a residency in the GCC, you will be granted a visa on arrival. 

 

Planning your transportation

It’s recommended that individuals should trust only authorised bus drivers and plan their travel route in advance.

In addition to the contact numbers provided, we strongly recommend discussing and coordinating travel plans with family and neighbours. It is also advisable to travel in large groups and ensure that all necessary paperwork is in order beforehand:

  1. Abduntood: 0927375244
  2. Al-Aziziyah: 00249911947841
  3. Amana Office: 01150992262
  4. Amana Office WhatsApp: 0927077769
  5. Abu Amer: 0121322443, 0125581125
  6. Arjun: 0918010082
  7. Itqaan: 0996551424
  8. Osama Al-Khandagawi: 01110099567
  9. Shiriyan Al-Sharig: 01288827467

Communities have come together to create group chats where civilians can communicate with one another, and coordinate on planning these trips together.

AVOIDING AGGRESSIVE PARTIES

In case army forces approach your residences for any reason during these dire conditions, it’s important to take action immediately. Follow these steps:

  1. Play the diplomat card and try to win them over through calm dialogue and negotiations. 
  2. Prepare food and drinks beforehand to present as a show of hospitality. This can prevent unnecessary issues from escalating out of control.
  3. Always show compassion for their current state – Emotional intelligence is a key factor in dealing with such cases.
  4. In the chance that you are driving, please make sure you stop once asked to by the forces and bear with their procedures.
  5. Avoid riding in cars often associated with signs of luxury and political parties as they have been reported to draw suspicions. 
  6. Finally, always keep track of the nearby forces and act accordingly. Remember, these measures can help protect yourself and those around you during this challenging time. 

In light of the current situation in Sudan, it is imperative that we increase efforts to raise awareness and collaborate to alleviate the ongoing suffering. Sharing this article can help sustain the dialogue, assist humanitarian organisations, and encourage governments to take decisive measures. By working together, we can help reinstate peace and stability in Sudan.

We are continually working to update our information and encourage anyone to share with us any highlights by tagging #LovinKhartoum.

We sincerely hope that amidst these challenging and tumultuous times, you prioritise self-care and look out for one another. Our thoughts are with you, and we pray that you find refuge in a secure and protected environment, with access to essential resources.

Stay resilient, Sudan.

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