AU and IGAD reaffirm commitment to Sudan peace talks amid escalating conflict
The AU and IGAD acknowledged that Sudan's situation remains volatile, with recent developments further dividing factions and complicating efforts to achieve a unified political solution.
The African Union (AU) High-Level Panel and the Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD) Special Envoy to Sudan have reaffirmed their commitment to mediating peace in Sudan as the country's conflict worsens.
This follows a meeting by Sudanese civilian political groups who met at the AU headquarters in Addis Ababa between February 19 and 21, to discuss steps toward an inclusive Inter-Sudanese Political Dialogue.
More To Read
- MSF suspends humanitarian operations at Sudan’s Zazam camp as conflict escalates
- US Senator accuses Kenya of supporting Sudan's ‘genocidal’ RSF paramilitary group
- Sudan recalls ambassador to Kenya amid RSF controversy
- Sudan accuses Ruto of breaking high-level promises after Nairobi hosts parallel govt talks
The AU and IGAD acknowledged that Sudan's situation remains volatile, with recent developments further dividing factions and complicating efforts to achieve a unified political solution.
"We urge all stakeholders to work together in good faith to bridge current divides and take decisive steps toward peace," the joint statement read in part.
The discussions are said to have focused on the urgent need for humanitarian relief and an immediate ceasefire while establishing a foundation for long-term political stability.
The AU and IGAD reiterated that no military solution exists to the crisis and called for a Sudanese-led process that restores civilian constitutional rule.
As Sudan plunges deeper into conflict, humanitarian organisations warn of catastrophic consequences. Fighting between the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) and the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) has led to mass displacement and extreme hardship.
Humanitarian agencies estimate that 11.3 million people have been displaced, while environmental disasters and food shortages have worsened the crisis.
The United Nations has highlighted Sudan's vulnerability to severe droughts and deadly floods, compounding the effects of war.
The Armed Conflict Location and Event Data Project (ACLED) reported over 700 attacks on civilians between October and December 2024.
The violence escalated in 2025, with January alone recording a 78 per cent increase in violent incidents compared to the previous year.
Earlier this month, IGAD Executive Secretary Workneh Gebeyehu warned that humanitarian aid alone cannot resolve Sudan's deepening crisis.
Speaking at the Sudan Humanitarian Assistance Conference in Addis Ababa, he acknowledged that aid had alleviated suffering but called for a long-term political solution.
"Despite the most generous pledges, challenges persist. The existing shortfalls have hindered the ability to deliver comprehensive aid to all affected populations," Gebeyehu stated.
"It is imperative that we not only fulfil our existing commitments but also mobilise additional resources to address the escalating needs," he added.
Top Stories Today
