By Dawan Africa - Reporter
The Heads of State and Government of the IGAD Quartet Group of Countries have on Monday convened in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, aimed to discuss the ongoing conflict and plan for the comprehensive implementation of the IGAD Roadmap for peace in the Republic of Sudan
In attendance were representatives from the IGAD Quartet group of countries such as Kenya, Ethiopia and South Sudan, and representatives from the United Nations, European Union, Egypt, Saudi Arabia, United Arab Emirates, United States, and United Kingdom were also present.
The deliberations centered on the current situation and developments in Sudan, with a focus on fostering peace and stability in the region.
The participants expressed deep concerns over the escalating conflict, violations of ceasefires, and the spread of violence, particularly in Darfur and Kordofan, the Summit emphasized the absence of a military solution.“IGAD Expresses deep concern regarding the impact of the ongoing war in the Republic of Sudan which has so far killed thousands of people, and displaced almost 3 million people including 2.2 million IDPs and nearly 615,000 refugees that have crossed the border into neighboring countries; and appreciates the neighbouring states of the Republic of Sudan that have opened their borders to provide protection to our Sudanese brothers and sisters,” the statement reads in part.
The statement added: “Further concerned by the escalation of the conflict, repeated violations of the various ceasefire agreements and the spread of violence outside of Khartoum to the other parts of Sudan particularly in Darfur as well as Kordofan where it is assuming ethnic and religious dimensions thereby threatening to deepen the polarization in the country; and regrets that this escalation driven by external interference that is prolonging and exacerbating the conflict.”
Furthermore, they have resolved to concentrate efforts on facilitating face-to-face meetings between the warring parties and urged an immediate cessation of violence through an unconditional and indefinite ceasefire, supported by an effective enforcement and monitoring mechanism.
Recognizing the dire humanitarian situation, the IGAD Quartet committed to facilitating immediate humanitarian assistance to affected Sudanese, particularly vulnerable populations, such as women, children, and persons with disabilities.
“Concerned by the degenerating humanitarian situation in the Republic of Sudan, decides to take concrete steps to facilitate immediate humanitarian assistance to all Sudanese affected by the conflict with a focus on vulnerable population in particular, Women Children and Persons living with disability,” the statement read.
They also resolved to request the East Africa Standby Force (EASF) to consider the deployment of troops for civilian protection and guaranteeing humanitarian access.
Moreover, the representatives called upon neighboring states to intensify their efforts in delivering humanitarian aid and to address logistical barriers, including visa and customs requirements.
They have also condemned the widespread human rights abuses, including sexual violence, as well as the repeated violations of the Vienna Convention on Diplomatic Relations, demanding the protection of diplomatic missions and premises in areas controlled by the warring parties.
“Strongly condemns the repeated violations of the Vienna Convention on Diplomatic Relations (1961) as manifested in the attacks and looting of diplomatic missions and premises in Khartoum and demands the protection of these premises in areas under the control of the warring parties,” the statement reads.
Sudan has been gripped by violent conflicts that erupted on April 15, 2023, stemming from a disagreement and armed clashes between the Sudanese Military forces and the Paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF). The escalating conflicts have led to a significant loss of life, with thousands of Sudanese killed, and numerous families forcibly displaced. Recognizing the urgency of the situation, the IGAD Quartet has reaffirmed its commitment to actively engage in addressing the Sudanese crisis and fostering sustainable peace and stability in the region. Through the coordination of diplomatic efforts in collaboration with the African Union, the Quartet aims to harmonize various mediation tracks, seeking a comprehensive resolution to the ongoing turmoil.
