Sudan’s Kordofan region, known for it’s riches in oil and strategic location, has become a major battleground in the ongoing battle between the country’s army and the rival Rapid Support Forces (RSF). The raging conflict, which has greatly affected the country for more than two years, is now centered on this vital area.
The spotlight turned to Kordofan after attacks earlier this month left hundreds of civilians dead, marking a sharp escalation in violence.“Kordofan is key. Whoever controls it holds the country’s oil lifeline and a large portion of Sudan,” said Amir Amin, a risk analyst at Oasis Policy Advisory, speaking to the BBC.
The region’s importance goes beyond Sudan’s borders. For landlocked South Sudan, Kordofan is a critical link, its oil exports depend on pipelines running through the region. That makes stability in Kordofan essential for both nations.
Kordofan is made up of three states and is home to nearly eight million people. The battle for control has intensified since June, when the Sudanese army launched fresh offensives to push the RSF out. This came shortly after the paramilitary group had made significant moves earlier, including reclaiming the capital, Khartoum, and the neighboring Gezira state, known as Sudan’s agricultural heartland.
Now, both sides are locked in a serious battle for Kordofan, one that could affect the future of Sudan’s economy and territorial control.
