Kenya joined the United States, China, Russia and other international and regional players at talks in Geneva aimed at coordinating efforts to end Sudan’s ongoing war that has claimed about 59,000 lives.
Switzerland and the United Nations Office of the Personal Envoy of the Secretary-General for Sudan co-hosted the sixth consultative meeting on Wednesday, October 21, bringing together representatives from African countries and key organisations, including the African Union (AU) and the Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD).
During the meeting, participating entities agreed to coordinate separate peace initiatives amid concerns that the conflict could soon spread to neighbouring countries, with potentially severe and lasting consequences for the wider region.
In addition, foreign governments and non-state actors were urged to stop supplying mercenaries, military equipment and financial support that could prolong the conflict.
Screengrab of delegates during the sixth consultative meeting on Sudan peace efforts in Geneva, Switzerland, October 21, 2026.
Screengrab
Participants expressed concern over the reports of atrocities and the growing use of drones that have caused heavy civilian casualties.
Delegates stressed that military victories would not resolve the war and called for respect for international humanitarian law, including the protection of civilian infrastructure.
They further warned that restrictions on humanitarian aid, worsening food insecurity and unfavourable weather conditions were increasing the risk of famine.
The renewed talks come after the U.S. dismissed reports in July that Sudan’s warring parties had reached a broad agreement on a proposed peace plan, saying several major issues remained unresolved between the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) and the Rapid Support Forces (RSF).
The U.S.-backed proposal had reportedly included a 90-day humanitarian truce, negotiations towards a permanent ceasefire and a civilian-led political transition, but disagreements over the RSF’s withdrawal from occupied cities remained a major obstacle.
Sudan’s war broke out in April 2023 following a power struggle between the SAF and the RSF, which has occupied several areas since May that year, triggering mass displacement, widespread destruction and a deepening humanitarian crisis.
The latest meeting called for an immediate end to the fighting and urged both sides to take concrete steps towards protecting civilians and agreeing to a ceasefire.
Representatives rejected parallel governments or institutions as a means of resolving the conflict, saying such arrangements could undermine Sudan’s unity and commitment to support the country’s sovereignty and territorial integrity.
Military officers belonging to the Rapid Support Forces during a past meeting.
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Rapid Support Forces