Sudan Army Breaks RSF Siege of El Obeid
Successful Military Operation
The Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) have successfully lifted a nearly two-year siege imposed by the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) on El Obeid, the capital of North Kordofan State. This operation was carried out through coordinated offensives by the 18th Infantry Division in White Nile State and the restructured "Al Sayyad (Hunter) Axis" forces of the 16th Infantry Division. The breakthrough restored a critical roadway between North Kordofan and White Nile states, allowing movement of forces and supplies.
Humanitarian Crisis and Its Alleviation
The RSF's prolonged siege had caused a severe humanitarian crisis in El Obeid, leading to acute shortages of food and medical supplies. The SAF’s victory is expected to facilitate the delivery of essential aid, improving conditions for civilians who have endured months of deprivation.
Strategic Impact and Future Operations
This military success serves as a springboard for further operations aimed at liberating other RSF-held areas, particularly in Darfur, where cities like El Fasher remain under RSF control. Finance Minister Gibril Ibrahim, who also leads the Justice and Equality Movement (JEM), praised the operation, calling it a pivotal shift toward liberating other occupied cities in Darfur.
Role of "Al Sayyad" Forces and Joint Forces
The "Al Sayyad" forces, instrumental in this mission, consist of remnants of the 16th Infantry Division, which suffered heavy losses when Nyala (South Darfur) fell to the RSF in October 2023. These reconstituted units now operate as a mobile combat force alongside elements of the Joint Forces, including fighters from the Sudan Liberation Movement/Army (SLM/A) led by Minni Arko Minnawi and the JEM. This integration has strengthened SAF’s operational capabilities, utilizing local knowledge and unconventional warfare tactics.
Conclusion
This turning point in the conflict between SAF and RSF has significant implications for the broader strategic landscape in Sudan. The military breakthrough not only strengthens SAF’s position but also raises hopes for further territorial gains and the eventual restoration of stability in key regions.
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A Fragile Ceasefire in Eastern DRC
Amid ongoing violence in eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), two nearly identical statements released on April 23, 2025, announced an immediate ceasefire. One was signed in Goma by a member of the rebel group AFC/M23—someone not even officially part of the delegation—and the other was issued by the Congolese government in Kinshasa.
Ituri Under Surveillance
Rising Security Concerns The political fragmentation in eastern DRC continues to threaten the fragile stability of Ituri. The failure of the Doha process and the breakdown of the republican pact could pave the way for a new wave of unrest in the region. On April 22, 2025, Uganda’s Chief of Defence Forces (CDF), General Muhoozi Kainerugaba, met with leaders of the Lendu militia CODECO (Cooperative for the Development of the Congo) in Entebbe. Officially, the meeting was convened to address CODECO’s attack on Ugandan military positions in Ituri, a confrontation that adds to past clashes between the group and the Ugandan People’s Defence Forces (UPDF). Key Figures and Discussions The CODECO delegation, led by Dunji Kulukpa Etienne (Vice President of the Lendu community), included political and militant representatives. On the Ugandan side, top-ranking officials participated: • General Muhoozi Kainerugaba, CDF • Lieutenant General Kayanja Muhanga, Land Forces Commander • Major General Felix Busizoori, Commander of the 4th Infantry Division • Brigadier General Oscar Munanura, Deputy Assistant Chief of Intelligence and Security Earlier in the week, CODECO leaders had already engaged with Ugandan military commanders. During the Entebbe meeting, Mr. Dunji expressed gratitude for Uganda’s reception and apologized for the Fataki clashes between CODECO and the UPDF. He claimed the militia had been influenced by external forces and emphasized that the Lendu, Balega, and Bahema communities do not view Uganda as an adversary. Dunji also highlighted Ituri’s worsening humanitarian crisis, attributing it to political divisions, while praising Uganda’s contributions in healthcare, refugee assistance, and economic aid. Uganda’s Expanding Influence in Ituri General Kainerugaba reaffirmed Uganda’s historical presence in North Kivu and Ituri, citing counter-insurgency operations dating back to the early 2000s. He urged CODECO leaders to collaborate with the UPDF in pursuit of a lasting peace. As a demonstration of goodwill, Ugandan forces provided free medical care to wounded CODECO fighters. Strategic Implications: A Larger Agenda? While Uganda frames this meeting as a step toward reconciliation, analysts at African Security Analysis suggest a deeper motive. They argue that the gathering was part of a broader effort to integrate CODECO into the militant coalition led by Thomas Lubanga, potentially setting the stage for coordinated offensives in Ituri, particularly targeting Bunia. If confirmed, this would signal a significant shift in the security landscape, with Uganda deepening its influence in Ituri under the guise of conflict resolution. The region remains under scrutiny as stakeholders assess the evolving dynamics.
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