Reports from rights groups and activists in Sudan’s central Gezira state reveal a devastating trend of women taking their own lives after being raped by paramilitary fighters amidst the country’s brutal civil war. The Rapid Support Forces (RSF) has been accused by the UN of committing “atrocious crimes,” including mass killings, in the state.
The conflict, which began in April 2023, has resulted in tens of thousands of deaths and displaced over 11 million people. The UN World Food Programme’s head, Cindy McCain, warns that Sudan may face the world’s largest humanitarian crisis if a ceasefire is not reached, potentially leading to millions dying from starvation.
Hala al-Karib, head of the Strategic Initiative for Women in the Horn of Africa (Siha), confirms three cases of suicide by women in Gezira state. “The RSF started a revenge campaign in areas under the control of Abu Kayka. They looted, killed civilians who were resisting and raped women and little girls,” she stated.
Siha documented these cases in Al Seriha and Ruffa, with evidence suggesting a higher figure due to patchy mobile communications. A female activist from Gezira corroborated accounts of women taking their lives after RSF killings.
The UN reports at least 400 survivors of conflict-related sexual violence, with victims ranging from eight to 75 years old. RSF spokesperson Nizar Sayed Ahmed disputes these claims, calling them “false and not based on evidence.”
In response, Siha provides psychological support to six women contemplating suicide, while also assisting a 13-year-old gang-rape victim in urgent need of medical care.
