The Chairperson of the African Union Commission, Mahmoud Ali Youssouf, has strongly condemned a series of deadly drone attacks in Sudan and the disputed Abyei Area, with reports indicating that more than 250 people have been killed in separate incidents.
In a statement issued on Thursday, October 22, Mr Youssouf expressed concern over the growing civilian toll, citing media reports and information from local, medical and administrative sources on attacks in several locations.
Reports indicated that approximately 80 people were killed in Al-Dibab in West Kordofan on October 18, while 23 others died in Nyala, South Darfur, following an attack on October 16. At least three children were also reportedly killed in Khartoum on October 19.
Separately, local authorities reported that more than 150 people were killed in an attack on Amiet market in the Abyei Area on October 19.
The AU Commission Chairperson deplored the heavy price civilians continue to pay through deaths, displacement, destruction of livelihoods and disrupted access to food, healthcare and other essential services.
He expressed solidarity with affected communities, extended condolences to bereaved families and wished those injured a speedy recovery.
Mr Youssouf called on all parties to the conflicts to immediately halt attacks targeting civilians and civilian infrastructure. He also urged them to protect humanitarian and medical personnel and ensure safe, rapid and unhindered humanitarian access in accordance with international law, particularly international humanitarian law.
Reaffirming the African Union’s commitment to Sudan’s sovereignty, unity and territorial integrity, he urged all parties to avoid actions that could intensify the conflict, threaten the country’s unity or endanger neighbouring states.
He further reiterated his support for ongoing regional and international mediation efforts, calling for coordinated action to secure an immediate humanitarian ceasefire and advance an inclusive political process led and owned by the Sudanese people.
The AU has called for an end to violence against civilians and renewed diplomatic efforts towards a peaceful and sustainable resolution of the conflict.