Landslide kills more than 1,000 in Sudan’s Darfur region, armed group says | Humanitarian Crises News

In recent days, a tragedy unfolded in Sudan’s Darfur region, highlighting the devastating consequences of natural disasters exacerbated by ongoing humanitarian crises. On September 2, 2025, reports emerged of a catastrophic landslide that obliterated an entire village in the Marra Mountains, claiming the lives of an estimated 1,000 individuals. This disaster was attributed to a series of heavy rainfalls that besieged the region.

### Overview of the Tragedy

The Sudan Liberation Movement/Army, a rebel group that exerts control over the area, announced that the landslide occurred on Sunday after a deluge inundated the region for several days. According to their statement, the village was “completely leveled to the ground,” with only one survivor discovered amidst the rubble. The rebel group has since called for international assistance, particularly from the United Nations, to help recover bodies and provide aid to the affected community.

### The Humanitarian Context

This landslide disaster comes at a time when Sudan is already grappling with profound humanitarian challenges, worsening due to an ongoing civil war that has persisted for over three years. The escalating violence between the Sudanese army and the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) complicates an already dire situation, leading to widespread famine in parts of Darfur.

Fleeing from violent clashes, many displaced individuals had sought refuge within the Marra Mountains area where the landslide occurred. Reports indicate that shortages of food and medical supplies have been a recurring issue for these vulnerable populations. The situation is exacerbated by the ongoing conflict that has led to severe insecurity, limiting access to critical resources.

### Escalation of Violence

Fighting has intensified in Darfur, particularly in cities like el-Fasher, which has been under siege for over a year as the RSF attempts to gain control of strategic locations. The recent conflict involving different factions of the Sudan Liberation Movement/Army illustrates the complexities of the situation where various groups vie for power amidst a decaying state.

The situation on the ground is not only tragic but also reflects broader geopolitical struggles within Sudan. The RSF, having lost significant territories earlier this year, is now focused on consolidating power in Western Sudan while the Sudanese military endeavors to maintain its dominance.

### Calls for International Assistance

As the Sudan Liberation Movement/Army pressed for international aid, their appeal illustrates the precarious nature of humanitarian efforts in the face of rising tensions. The pressing needs for body recovery and assistance highlight the urgency of international intervention in a region that is already home to countless humanitarian crises.

This appeal not only demands logistical support but also emphasizes the importance of humanitarian aid to address the broader challenges posed by the civil war. International organizations face significant barriers in addressing the needs of the population amid escalating violence and instability, further complicating any response efforts.

### Conclusion

The landslide in Sudan’s Darfur region represents a heart-wrenching calamity that underscores the intersecting challenges of natural disasters and human conflict. The substantial loss of life, compounded by the symbolic destruction of community, warrants urgent attention and action from the international community. In the face of severe humanitarian crises, the need for cohesive, coordinated, and sustained support from global entities is critical to alleviating misery and preventing future disasters—be they man-made or natural.

As we reflect on this tragedy, it becomes imperative to advocate for effective measures that can bring aid to those most in need while addressing the underlying causes of conflict and instability in Sudan. Only through a concerted global effort can we hope to mend the enduring scars of crisis in this beleaguered region.

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