Neelam Rahim | neelam@radioislam.co.za

2-minute read
25 April 2023 | 20:00 CAT

Photo Credit: SowetanLIVE

South Africa has started with the evacuation of citizens trapped in Sudan. President Cyril Ramaphosa also stated that South Africa would assist other nationals from the region stranded in Sudan. South Africa joins countries worldwide racing to move foreign nationals to safety after the army and the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces began clashing across Sudan, killing hundreds and causing acute water, food, medicines and fuel shortages. South African relief organisation Gift of the Givers is involved in the rescue operation.

Discussing the severity of the situation on the ground with Radio Islam International, Founder of Gift of the Givers, Dr Imtiaz Sooliman, said amongst the destroyed infrastructure, damaged hospitals, sewerage on the streets, closed shops and continuous shootings, the pile-up of bodies belonging to both military and civilians are seen.

The humanitarian organisation says a significant challenge faced by those escaping the war-torn country is that many still need their passports or Visas, making it harder for them to enter other countries.

Dr Sooliman said the 38 South Africans and seven Angolans left Khartoum at about midday on Monday on the road to Egypt in two buses owned by a Sudanese bus company Good Transporter.

Violent clashes broke out between the army and paramilitary forces a week ago, killing more than 430 people.

The Department of International Relations last week urged South Africans to remain indoors. It said the embassy is looking at how it would be able to assist them.

Listen to the full interview on Sabahul Muslim with host Moulana Habib Bobat.