Since 15 April 2023, the RSF, a paramilitary group, has been in armed conflict with the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) which is commanded by President Abdel Fattah al-Burhan.
Both sides jointly deposed the transitional regime, established after the overthrow of dictator Omar al-Bashir in 2019. Once their objective was achieved, the Sudanese Army and the RSF clashed for control of the country’s wealth, especially for gold and oil.
According to a Thursday, January 16 report, the U.S. The Treasury Department has frozen President al-Burhan's assets, accusing his army of targeting civilians and the use of food blockades. These sanctions aim to pressure Sudan's leadership to cease hostilities and allow humanitarian aid to reach affected populations.
In response to the humanitarian crisis, local Sudanese communities have reportedly established Emergency Response Rooms (ERRs) to provide essential services.
These grassroots initiatives offer food, medical assistance, and education, compensating for the limited reach of international aid organizations due to ongoing violence. The ERRs exemplify the resilience and solidarity of Sudanese citizens amid adversity
In the January 16 report, Bishop Tombe narrated his experience the day the war began. He said that at the first shelling, he went into the Cathedral of Our Lady Queen of Africa of his Episcopal See and prayed before the Blessed Sacrament, before receiving the “unexpected visitors.”
He explained that the Cathedral, situated near military and security installations, became a direct target during the early stages of the fighting and suffered significant impacts of the war.
Bishop Tombe recalled praying in the Cathedral when it was hit by bullets and shrapnel. He also recalled receiving an unexpected visit from SAF members, who he said sought shelter in the Cathedral.
“After three hours the fighting subsided, and they all left,” the Bishop said and added that later, one of them returned and said, while pointing at the tabernacle, “Bishop, this candle is strong and powerful. It has protected us.”
Bishop Tombe told ACN that the testimony of the SAF member strengthened his devotion to the Blessed Sacrament, which he described as his source of strength and joy. He disclosed that he now holds adoration four times daily and has encouraged the 300 Catholic families who remain in El-Obeid to deepen their faith.