Aya Ibrahim

Sudan — Sudanese women are among the groups most affected by the conflict between the army and the Rapid Support Forces (RSF), which erupted in April 2023. Despite this, they continue to show resilience and strength as they face some of the hardest moments of their lives.

As the conflict approaches its third year, its impact on women remains evident, whether psychologically or socially. Yet, many women have stood firm in the face of these challenges, managing not only to rise again but also to achieve success in various fields. On the other hand, some women are still unable to overcome the effects of the conflict and return to their previous lives. Between these two realities, a central question arises: How can Sudanese women regain their normal lives after the war in their country?

 

Providing Psychological Support Services

Aisha Abdullah, head of the Sudanese Red Crescent Society in the Northern State, says that the warm reception displaced women received in safe areas offered them great moral support and gave them the strength needed to restart their lives.

She noted that the organization played an important role in supporting displaced women by providing services that help them continue life with resilience, including psychological support, meeting the needs of children, and encouraging women to seek work.
“There are many women now working in local markets in the displacement areas,” she added.

Aisha Abdullah confirmed that all Sudanese women were affected by the conflict, directly or indirectly, stressing the importance of moving forward and closing the chapter of the past with determination and persistence. She urged women to work and resume life as naturally as possible.

 

A Model of Dignity in the Battle

Sudanese women have faced immense challenges throughout the conflict, including forced displacement, rape, killings, loss of livelihoods, and harsh living conditions in camps. Millions were displaced, losing their homes and possessions, while many struggled to find basic necessities and relied on humanitarian aid. Nevertheless, they displayed remarkable resilience and courage, often standing at the forefront of the struggle.

Journalist Mai Mansour stated that women have remained steadfast and strong since the conflict began, as demonstrated by their participation in social, community, and political spheres.

She emphasized the need for greater cohesion within communities and neighborhoods, noting that women have become exemplary figures in the “battle for dignity.” She called for increased support for women within sustainable development projects, especially in the field of production.

 

Sudanese Women Have the Ability to Rise Again

“Through our experiences with displaced women in shelters, and because of the nature of our work, we have seen firsthand—without any doubt—that Sudanese women are fighters, strong, and capable of returning to their normal lives despite everything they endured during the war,” said Rania Abbas, World Food Programme coordinator for the Sudanese Red Crescent.

She noted that women have begun adapting to the conflict’s conditions naturally, stressing the importance of accepting the country’s reality and learning to coexist with it despite the difficulties. She added that Sudanese women possess the ability to rise again, remain strong, and contribute to building a better future for a new Sudan.

She also highlighted the importance of fulfilling women’s basic needs to support this path—especially ensuring children’s access to education, which she described as a cornerstone of life, in addition to economic empowerment.

Sudanese communities rely heavily on women, who form the foundation and backbone of the family. For this reason, women recognize their responsibility toward their society and remain committed to being strong and steadfast in the face of challenges.