Sudan: Authorities issue a 30-day state of emergency in Blue Nile State, Oct, 21, following tribal clashes /update 1

Event

Authorities in Sudan declared a 30-day state of emergency (SoE) in Blue Nile State Oct. 21. The SoE comes in response to recent violence between the Hausa and Funj tribes in Wad Al-Mahi locality Oct 13-16, resulting in at least 150 casualties. Officials have also imposed an overnight curfew and banned all forms of unnecessary gatherings on Oct. 17; additional security personnel have been deployed to quell violence. The fighting was the most recent flare-up in an ongoing land dispute.

Authorities could impose a number of security measures in response to any further violence that may break out including, security checkpoints, and other restrictions on movement.

Context

A land dispute has pitted the Hausa people against the Birta, Funj, and al-Hamaj tribes in Blue Nile since at least July 2022, resulting in communal violence in several parts of the state. Despite the implementation of an initial agreement to end hostilities shortly after the fighting first broke out, clashes resumed in September. UN sources estimate that the violence had displaced over 37,000 people in Blue Nile State.

Advice

Abide by the conditions of the SoE and heed the advice of security officials. Consider deferring nonessential travel to Blue Nile State until the situation stabilizes. Exercise extreme caution if such travel is unavoidable. Maintain contact with your diplomatic mission.