Sudan's Al-Fashir: A Ghost Town After Paramilitary Takeover

Al-Fashir, a city in Sudan, is now a shadow of its former self. After a paramilitary group took control, most people have fled. Those who stayed are struggling to survive. The United Nations recently visited the area. They found very few people left. Many buildings are empty. Some people are living in makeshift camps. There is little food available. A small market sells only basic items.The situation is dire. The U. N. described the city as a "crime scene. " People look exhausted and anxious. Many are missing. The attack on Al-Fashir was part of a larger conflict. It started in April 2023. The paramilitary group, known as the Rapid Support Forces (RSF), has taken control of the Darfur region. This area is in western Sudan. The U. N. is concerned about the injured and those who are missing. They plan to visit again. This time, they will check on water and sanitation. The RSF claims the city is back to normal. But the U. N. sees a different picture. The city is far from normal. It is a place of suffering and loss.