Rapid Support Forces
How has the current conflict in Sudan affected the sugar industry?
The ongoing conflict in Sudan has severely disrupted the sugar industry, leaving 'a bitter taste in many mouths' as described in the report. The paramilitary Rapid Support Forces have seized control of multiple sugar factories, including a significant facility near the city of Sennaard. This military takeover of production facilities represents a major blow to Sudan's sugar supply chain and local economy. These developments are especially devastating for farming communities that rely on these factories for their livelihoods, compounding challenges in a country that was already struggling with sugar self-sufficiency and dependent on imports even before the conflict intensified.
Watch clip answer (00:12m)
Al Jazeera English
00:40 - 00:53
How has the conflict in Sudan impacted the country's sugar production and consumption?
The current conflict in Sudan has severely disrupted sugar production, with the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces taking control of key sugar factories, including one near Sennaard city. This has created significant challenges for a population with a strong cultural connection to sugar consumption, as most Sudanese insist on using abundant sugar in their tea and coffee. Local businesses report that customers consume up to 3kg of sugar daily, highlighting the importance of this commodity in Sudanese culture. As one local states, 'I'm used to it like this since I was a child,' demonstrating how deeply ingrained sugar consumption is in daily life. However, the ongoing conflict has 'left a bitter taste in many mouths' as production facilities have been compromised by the fighting.
Watch clip answer (00:37m)
Al Jazeera English
00:16 - 00:53
Why are the Sudanese Armed Forces winning the hearts of civilians in the ongoing conflict?
The Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) have gained civilian support because of how they've conducted themselves during the conflict. Despite having problems, the SAF has behaved significantly better than the Rapid Support Forces (RSF), which has committed severe atrocities against civilians. This improved conduct has allowed the SAF to win the hearts of many people on the ground who have suffered under RSF control for almost two years. As the SAF achieves military successes against the paramilitary forces, civilians who experienced the harsh realities of RSF occupation are increasingly supporting the national army's efforts.
Watch clip answer (00:21m)
Al Jazeera English
04:16 - 04:38
What is the recent death toll from the Rapid Support Forces attacks in Sudan?
According to Sudan's Foreign Ministry, the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) have killed 433 civilians, including children, in attacks over a three-day period. These attacks targeted villages around Al Ghetayna in White Nile state, which is located south of the capital Khartoum. The violence represents a significant humanitarian crisis with the government characterizing these as terrorist attacks against civilian populations. As the conflict continues, there are growing concerns about rising casualties and the need for international intervention to address the situation.
Watch clip answer (00:17m)
Al Jazeera English
00:00 - 00:17
What is the current state of the conflict in Sudan?
The Sudan conflict has been ongoing for almost two years and has escalated into what experts consider the world's worst humanitarian crisis ever recorded. According to the Sudanese Foreign Ministry, the violence has intensified recently with 433 civilians, including children, killed in just three days, primarily due to attacks by the Rapid Support Forces (RSF). The crisis has driven Sudanese citizens to increasingly support the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) as they seek stability amid widespread fear and suffering caused by what many describe as terrorism against civilians.
Watch clip answer (00:15m)Al Jazeera English
02:24 - 02:40
What changes are occurring in Sudan regarding the military conflict and civilian sentiment?
The clip highlights significant transformations in Sudan's conflict dynamics. There is a notable emboldenment of General Burhan and the Sudanese Army, which has evolved considerably from what it was in previous years. More importantly, there is a palpable sense of relief among Sudanese civilians who have endured nearly two years under occupation. The people are expressing joy at the prospect of liberation from this oppressive situation. This represents a critical shift in both military positioning and public sentiment, as civilians increasingly support the army's efforts against occupying forces.
Watch clip answer (00:19m)Al Jazeera English
05:05 - 05:25