Next week will mark the second anniversary of the current conflict in Sudan. The UN Secretary General described the situation as a ‘humanitarian catastrophe’. It has triggered the worst displacement crisis in the world.
Please pray for the people of Sudan who are facing the pain and trauma of displacement, violence (including conflict-related sexual violence), hunger and famine. There is credible evidence of atrocity crimes as both sides – the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) and the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) – continue to intentionally and systematically target civilians and civilian infrastructure, including places of worship.
Find out more at csw.org.uk/sudan
Sunday 6 April
11 million people are internally displaced in Sudan. Of that number, 8.1 million were displaced after the outbreak of the war in April 2023 and many have been forced to flee more than once in this time. A further 2.2 million have fled to neighbouring countries like Egypt. Ask the Lord to be close to them as they seek safety.
Monday 7 April
The UN fact-finding mission (FFM) has reported that the violations committed by the RSF and SAF may amount to the most serious breaches of international criminal law; war crimes and crimes against humanity. Ask God to bring his justice, holding the perpetrators to account. Pray for the protection of those who are being specifically targeted, including ethnic groups and women and girls.
Tuesday 8 April
There has been extensive damage to critical infrastructure in Sudan, including food and nutrition manufacturing. In December 2023 the fighting reached Al Jazirah State where almost half of the country’s wheat is produced. Cry out to God on behalf of all those facing hunger and acute malnutrition, remembering that he is Jehovah Jireh – the one who provides.
Wednesday 9 April
The warring parties are targeting humanitarian workers, particularly local volunteers, and are also accused of using the delivery of aid as a bargaining chip. This means that vulnerable populations are unable to access vital humanitarian aid. Pray that aid would get to the people who need it, and that local and international humanitarian workers would be protected from violence.
Thursday 10 April
Christian communities remain vulnerable in the war. Communities like the Christian village of Al Thora in Al Gezira State – who are in acute humanitarian need – are facing pressure from the RSF to convert to Islam in order to receive aid and protection. Anyone attempting to flee the area may be accused of being affiliated with the SAF. Pray that these efforts at forced conversion would cease and that communities would be free from the threat of violence.
Friday 11 April
After Friday prayers on 4 December, at least seven people were killed in an SAF airstrike on a mosque in Shambat, Khartoum North. On 20 December at least 11 people were killed in an SAF airstrike on a Baptist church, also in Khartoum North. Pray for their loved ones and for those who were seriously injured. Pray that both the SAF and RSF would stop targeting civilians and places of worship immediately.
Saturday 12 April
Father God, we lift up church and community leaders across Sudan today. Help them as they look to lead, support, mourn with and provide for the needs of the people in their care. Grant them resilience, patience, spiritual refreshment and wisdom amid overwhelming challenges. Amen.