Doha Forum discusses ways to end Sudan war

Doha Forum 2023 Monday discussed ways to bring an end to the Sudan’s ongoing civil war, which has 'already killed thousands and displaced millions'. Moderated by Dr Comfort Ero, president and CEO, International Crisis Group, the panel discussion 'Sudan at War' hosted Hanna Tetteh, UN Special Envoy to the Horn of Africa; Michael Hammer, US special envoy for the Horn of Africa; Kholood Khair, founding director of Confluence Advisory; and Murithi Mutiga, Africa Programme director of International Crisis Group.The discussion noted that the conflict has protracted instability in Sudan and could reverberate further afield. It explored avenues for securing a lasting ceasefire and contemplated steps necessary to kickstart a meaningful political process while identifying ways to reduce the conflict’s impact in neighbouring states and the wider region.Tetteh noted that the war is a conflict between two military establishments and not between the Sudani people. "It has to be an unconditional ceasefire and there are no terms or preconditions that ought to come into play before that happens. But it is also important to recognise that the government of Sudan will have to reflect the country and hence the civilian actors should be consulted as part of that process to get the outcome that is desired,” Tetteh said.Hammer underlined the need to stop the foreign support for the warring parties in Sudan. "We, as the US, along with the UN, are working to support the Intergovernmental Authority on Development' efforts in conjunction with the African Unon and our Saudi partners, for a ceasefire and humanitarian assistance,” he added.