A large number of civilians have fled Sudan’s strategic city of Heglig in West Kordofan after the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) seized the area last week, setting off a grueling nine-day trek to safety. Roughly 2,000 people have displaced themselves from Heglig, underscoring the ongoing humanitarian crisis fueled by the long-running conflict between Sudan’s military and the RSF.
Arrival in Kosti and Emergency Aid Response
Sudan’s state news agency SUNA reported that White Nile State Governor Qamar El-Din Mohamed indicated about 1,850 displaced individuals have reached the city of Kosti. In parallel, humanitarian officials—led by the state’s Aid Commissioner Lamyaa Ahmed Abdullah—said local and national agencies, along with civil society groups, have mobilized to deliver urgent support, including food, shelter, and basic medical care for the newcomers.
Strategic Significance and National Conflict Dynamics
The RSF’s capture of Heglig granted control over a major oilfield, a notable strategic advance in a resource-rich corridor. The border region of Kordofan has witnessed heavy fighting for weeks, forcing tens of thousands to flee their homes. Since the conflict intensifed in April 2023, thousands have died and millions have been displaced nationwide.
Current Territorial Situation in Sudan
At present, the RSF controls all five states in the Darfur region to the west, with some northern areas in North Darfur remaining under government forces. The Sudanese army retains governing influence over most of the other 13 states, including the capital Khartoum, which remains under state control across the north, south, east, and central parts of the country.
