Nairobi, May 12 (Darfur24)
United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres on Monday called for urgent international action to end the war in Sudan, warning that the conflict is deepening instability across Africa and worsening humanitarian suffering on the continent.
Speaking to journalists in the Kenyan capital, Nairobi, Guterres said Africa’s hopes for peace and development are being undermined by armed conflicts, climate shocks, hunger and economic pressures, placing particular emphasis on the devastating impact of the war in Sudan.
“No discussion of Africa’s future can ignore the conflicts causing so much suffering across the continent,” Guterres said, calling for an immediate cessation of hostilities in Sudan alongside other conflict zones, including eastern Democratic Republic of Congo and South Sudan.
The UN chief warned that the continued fighting in Sudan risks fueling wider regional instability, displacement and humanitarian crises, while stressing the need for dialogue, international cooperation and stronger local institutions to achieve lasting peace.
Since April 2023, Sudan has witnessed a brutal conflict between the Sudanese army and the Rapid Support Forces that has displaced millions of civilians and triggered one of the world’s worst humanitarian crises.
Guterres also linked African instability to broader global tensions, warning that conflicts in the Middle East and disruptions to international trade routes could have severe economic consequences for African countries, including Sudan.
He noted that around 13 percent of Africa’s imports, particularly oil and fertilizers, pass through the Strait of Hormuz, warning that any prolonged disruption would increase economic hardship across the continent.
“That is why de-escalation is urgent,” Guterres said. “All parties must refrain from any action that could widen the conflict, and diplomacy must be given every chance.”
The UN Secretary-General added that the organization is intensifying its engagement with African countries to support peace, sustainable development and climate justice amid growing international instability.
Guterres also criticized the continued exclusion of Africa from permanent representation on the UN Security Council, describing it as an imbalance in the international system.
He stressed that the United Nations would continue pushing for reforms that provide African countries with stronger representation, greater resources and a more influential role in global decision-making.