Sudan: RSF kills over 1,000 civilians in Zamzam refugee camp in April, UN reports • FRANCE 24

Key Concepts

• Sudan Conflict: Violence perpetrated by the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) against civilians, particularly in displacement camps like Zamzam.
• Tanzania Post-Election Crackdown: Allegations of excessive force, deaths, and torture by Tanzanian security forces following elections.
• Ethiopia - Amhara Region Conflict: Ongoing conflict between the federal army and Fano militias, resulting in civilian casualties and limited information.
• Guinea Massacre Trial: Commencement of a trial related to the 2009 massacre at a political rally in Conakry.
• Chad-Sudan Refugee Crisis: Increasing tensions over scarce water resources between Chadian communities and Sudanese refugees due to conflict and climate change.
• Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON): Upcoming tournament in Morocco, with expectations focused on host nation Morocco, Senegal, and Ivory Coast.
• Morocco 2030 World Cup Bid: Morocco’s preparations for co-hosting the 2030 World Cup with Spain and Portugal, viewing AFCON as a test run.

Sudan: Horrific Violence by the Rapid Support Forces

A United Nations Human Rights Office report details extensive violence committed by the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) against civilians in Sudan, specifically during a three-day attack on the Zamzam refugee camp in April. Over 1,000 civilians were killed, including over 300 women and children who were reportedly executed. The report also documents widespread sexual violence, including instances of women being used as sexual slaves. Investigators utilized testimonies and satellite imagery to confirm violations of international humanitarian law. This pattern of violence mirrors previous attacks by the RSF and allied Arab militias in cities like El Geneina (West Darfur), where over 10,000 civilians were killed according to the UN, and Al Fasher (North Darfur), where civilians were killed, injured, tortured, and raped. Amnesty International has also accused the RSF of war crimes during their attacks.

Technical Terms:

• Rapid Support Forces (RSF): A paramilitary group in Sudan currently engaged in conflict with the Sudanese military.
• International Humanitarian Law: A set of rules that seek to limit the effects of armed conflict.

Tanzania: Condemnation of Post-Election Crackdown

Amnesty International has condemned the violent crackdown on post-election protests in Tanzania in October and November, reporting hundreds of deaths and injuries. The NGO alleges systematic use of lethal force and instances of torture by Tanzanian security forces. While authorities have announced the formation of an investigative commission, Amnesty International is calling for an independent investigation, deeming the government-led commission insufficient.

Ethiopia: Conflict in the Amhara Region

Civilians in Ethiopia’s Amhara region are caught in the crossfire of a three-year conflict between the federal army and the Fano, the region’s self-defense militias. The conflict stems from the Fano’s perceived betrayal following the peace deal signed in November 2022 with the Tigray region. There is limited public information about the conflict, and no official death toll has been released. Victims like Ysef Dbasu, who lost a leg to a landmine, and Bellete Melke, who was hit by a stray bullet, highlight the civilian impact. Local clinics are struggling to cope with the influx of injuries. The conflict is characterized by a lack of clarity, with both sides claiming to fight for Ethiopia.

Technical Terms:

• Fano: Amhara regional self-defense militias.

Guinea: Trial for 2009 Massacre

The Kakri criminal court has initiated a trial for seven individuals allegedly involved in the 2009 massacre at a political rally in Conakry, Guinea. At least 156 people were killed with knives, machetes, or gunfire, and hundreds more were wounded. Golanel Bianu Lama, one of the accused, faces charges including murder, rape, torture, and abuse of authority. The trial is seen as a significant step towards justice for the victims’ families, who have waited over a decade for accountability.

Chad: Water Scarcity and Refugee Crisis

In Chad’s Wadifira region, tensions are escalating between local communities and Sudanese refugees due to increasing water scarcity. The influx of refugees fleeing the conflict in Sudan, combined with the effects of the climate crisis and recurring droughts, is exacerbating the problem. Minakar, a Sudanese refugee who has moved twice due to drought, describes the difficulties in finding arable land and accessing water. Humanitarian organizations like Sakur Islamic France are providing water purification systems, but distribution remains a point of contention. Clashes over water access have already resulted in 30 deaths in central Chad in early November. Humanitarian actors are attempting to mediate by dividing water resources between Chadian communities and refugees.

Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) and Morocco’s Preparations

The Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) is set to begin in Morocco in two days. Morocco, the host nation and recent winner of the Arab Cup (defeating Jordan 3-2 in extra time), is a strong favorite, alongside Senegal and Ivory Coast. Sports journalist Karim Baldi reports a celebratory atmosphere in Rabat following the Arab Cup victory. Morocco faces pressure to win the tournament for the first time since 1976, but also to demonstrate its organizational capabilities as it prepares to co-host the 2030 FIFA World Cup with Spain and Portugal. Morocco aims to meet “international standards” in hosting AFCON, with a particular focus on securing the right to host the 2030 World Cup final.

Notable Quote:

• Karim Baldi: “...the whole country is waiting for getting that trophy here on their home soil.” (referring to Morocco winning AFCON)

Nigeria: Festive Season Amidst Challenges

Despite concerns about insecurity and rising living costs, residents of Lagos, Nigeria, are finding moments of joy during the festive season, enjoying light installations and shows across the city.

Synthesis/Conclusion

The France 24 report highlights a complex and challenging landscape across Africa. Ongoing conflicts in Sudan and Ethiopia continue to inflict immense suffering on civilian populations, while political instability in Tanzania and Guinea raises concerns about human rights and accountability. The refugee crisis in Chad underscores the interconnectedness of conflict, climate change, and resource scarcity. Amidst these challenges, the upcoming Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco offers a moment of celebration and a platform for the nation to showcase its capabilities on the international stage. The report emphasizes the urgent need for humanitarian assistance, independent investigations into human rights abuses, and sustained efforts to address the root causes of conflict and instability across the continent.