Sudanese women, known as “Kendake,” are at the forefront of efforts to combat sexual violence used as a weapon of war amid the ongoing civil conflict. Following the 2019 Sudanese Revolution, they have mobilized as activists and leaders, demanding political representation, humanitarian aid focused on women’s needs, and protections against wartime sexual atrocities. Despite the dire humanitarian crisis, they are instrumental in advocating for peace and safeguarding women’s rights.
In Sudan, amid the grave impacts of ongoing civil war, women known as “Kendake,” meaning “Nubian Queen” from the ancient Kush civilization, have emerged as resilient leaders in the fight against rampant sexual violence. Their advocacy comes in the wake of the Sudanese Revolution of 2019, which saw the overthrow of former President Omar al-Bashir and opened pathways for women’s active participation in the political landscape. As the conflict reignited in April 2023, resulting in over 12,000 fatalities, mass displacements, and a potential humanitarian disaster, women have mobilized to address the urgent crisis of wartime sexual violence which has especially affected the Darfur region. The United Nations has reported alarming instances of sexual violence, including rape and gang rape, predominantly perpetrated by the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF). Despite being victims of these atrocities, Sudanese women have risen to become activists and defenders of human rights, advocating for the needs and protection of women and children affected by war. “Women are now working intensively to stop the war and push the army and the rapid forces to a comprehensive peace,” emphasized Intisar al-Sadiq, an advisor at Search For Common Ground Sudan. A recent assembly of around 70 Sudanese feminist organizations called for joint action to combat sexual violence and ensure women’s involvement in peace processes. This led to a conference in Kampala, Uganda, where a plan was put forth to implement protective measures for women amidst the ongoing conflict. Notably, the plan advocates for the allocation of 25% of humanitarian aid to projects that cater specifically to women in conflict-affected areas. Furthermore, the Sudanese Together Against Rape and Sexual Violence Campaign has documented multiple incidents of sexual violence during the war, underscoring the urgent need for adequate political representation of women in peace negotiations. Activists like Intisar Abdullah stress the importance of creating safe corridors for humanitarian aid and establishing protective measures for women, as female groups are currently underrepresented in dialogues aimed at peace. In summary, Sudanese women are at the forefront of activism against sexual violence and are striving to secure their rights and safety amid the chaos of war. Their efforts encapsulate a profound commitment to fostering peace and protecting the vulnerable, ensuring that the narrative of the ongoing conflict recognizes both their suffering and their strength.
The backdrop to this situation involves decades of civil unrest in Sudan, with major violence and human rights violations taking place, particularly in the Darfur region. The 2019 Sudanese Revolution marked a pivotal moment where popular uprisings led to the overthrow of President Omar al-Bashir, allowing for greater female participation in both political discourse and advocacy. As civil strife has resumed in 2023, characterized by clashes between military forces and paramilitary groups, women have found themselves at the intersection of activism and survival, fighting against wartime sexual violence that has been used as a weapon during conflicts. The involvement of Sudanese women as political leaders and rights advocates highlights their crucial role in addressing systemic issues of violence and ensuring a focus on women’s rights amid the turmoil.
In conclusion, the struggle of Sudanese women, particularly those identified as “Kendake,” is emblematic of their resilience and leadership in combating sexual violence in the context of civil war. Through organized efforts and advocacy, they are not only seeking justice for victims and survivors but are also fighting for a significant role in shaping Sudan’s political future. Their demands for humanitarian aid allocation and direct involvement in peace processes reflect a committed push toward achieving broader gender equality and protection against violence, which are integral to any lasting peace in Sudan.
Original Source: worldcrunch.com
