‘A donkey cart out of El Fasher costs more than a new car’: how 500 days under siege is tearing the city apart

A donkey cart out of El Fasher costs more than a new car: how 500 days under siege is tearing the city apart El Fasher, North Darfur, has been under siege for over 17 months, leading to a severe humanitarian crisis. The Rapid Support Forces (RSF) have intensified the blockade, resulting in widespread starvation and destruction. Basic goods, including donkey carts, have become prohibitively expensive, reflecting the dire economic situation. Civilians are forced to navigate dangerous neighborhoods while self-defense groups emerge to protect them. The siege has drawn comparisons to historical events like the sieges of Stalingrad and Leningrad. Background of the Siege Since May 2024, El Fasher has endured one of the most prolonged urban sieges in recent history. The ongoing conflict, primarily driven by the RSF, has transformed the city into a battleground where civilians face relentless bombardment and severe shortages of essential supplies. The siege has not only led to physical destruction but has also created a humanitarian crisis reminiscent of the horrors experienced in Stalingrad and Leningrad during World War II. The RSF, a paramilitary group, has progressively tightened its grip on El Fasher, effectively cutting off access to food and medical supplies. The situation has deteriorated to the point where basic commodities are scarce, and the cost of living has skyrocketed. Reports indicate that a simple donkey cart, once a common mode of transport, now costs more than a new car, illustrating the extreme inflation and economic collapse gripping the city. Humanitarian Crisis Unfolding The humanitarian situation in El Fasher is dire. With the blockade in place, food shortages have become a daily reality for many residents. The lack of access to essential goods has led to widespread malnutrition and starvation. Families struggle to find enough to eat, and the situation is exacerbated by ongoing violence that makes it dangerous to venture outside. Civilians have resorted to desperate measures to survive, often moving block by block in search of safety and sustenance while navigating neighborhoods that have become battlegrounds. The RSFs tactics include indiscriminate shelling and sniper fire, making any attempt to procure food or medical assistance perilous. In response to the escalating violence and lack of protection, self-defense groups have emerged. These local militias attempt to fill the security vacuum left by the government, providing some level of protection for their communities. However, their presence also adds to the chaos, as they engage in armed confrontations with RSF forces, further endangering civilians. Economic Implications of the Siege The economic ramifications of the siege are profound and far-reaching. With the blockade in place, trade routes have been severed, and local markets have collapsed. The scarcity of goods has led to astronomical price increases, making it nearly impossible for average citizens to afford basic necessities. The situation is so severe that even a donkey cart, once a practical and affordable means of transport, has become a luxury item. This economic collapse has not only affected individuals but has also had a ripple effect on the broader community. Local businesses have shuttered, and unemployment rates have soared. The once-thriving economy of El Fasher is now in tatters, leaving many residents without any means of income or support. The international community has largely turned a blind eye to the plight of El Fasher, and humanitarian aid has been slow to arrive. Efforts to provide relief have been hampered by ongoing violence and the RSFs control over access points. As a result, the people of El Fasher are left to fend for themselves amid an increasingly desperate situation. Historical Context and Future Implications The siege of El Fasher cannot be understood in isolation; it is part of a broader historical context of conflict in Sudan. The region has a long history of violence and instability, with various groups vying for power and control. The current situation reflects years of neglect, marginalization, and violence against the people of Darfur. Looking ahead, the future of El Fasher remains uncertain. The ongoing siege is not only a humanitarian crisis but also a potential flashpoint for further violence in the region. As the RSF continues to tighten its grip, the risk of a larger conflict looms. The international community must take urgent action to address the situation, providing humanitarian assistance and working towards a peaceful resolution to the conflict. Conclusion The siege of El Fasher is a stark reminder of the devastating impact of war on civilian populations. With over 17 months of relentless attacks, the city has been transformed into a landscape of despair, where starvation and violence are daily realities. The economic collapse and humanitarian crisis unfolding in El Fasher demand immediate attention and action from the global community. Without intervention, the situation is likely to worsen, leaving the people of El Fasher trapped in an endless cycle of suffering and despair. The resilience of the residents is commendable, but the need for external support and a resolution to the conflict has never been more urgent.