What Haunts Sudan's Players from the Civil War?

In the midst of a devastating civil war, Sudan's national football team aims to inspire hope and unity through sport. Players like John Mano, who lost his best friend Medo to the conflict, are using their platform in the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (Afcon) to highlight the suffering of their people while striving for success on the field.

Last updated: 19 October 2023 (BST)

What’s happening now

As Sudan grapples with a civil war that has claimed over 150,000 lives since April 2023, the national football team, known as the Falcons of Jediane, is preparing to compete in the 2025 Afcon tournament in Morocco. This conflict has not only led to a humanitarian crisis—displacing over 12 million people—but has also crippled the country's football infrastructure. Despite these challenges, the team has made it to the finals for only the fourth time since 1976, providing a glimmer of hope amid despair.

Key takeaways

Over 150,000 people have died in Sudan's civil war since April 2023.
More than 12 million individuals have been displaced due to the conflict.
Sudan's football league has been halted, with clubs forced to play abroad.
The national team has reached the Afcon finals, aiming to inspire their compatriots.
Football is seen as a vital unifying force for the Sudanese people during these trying times.

Timeline: how we got here

To understand the current situation, it’s essential to look at the timeline of events leading up to the civil war:

April 2023: The civil war begins amidst a power struggle between the Sudanese army and the Rapid Support Forces (RSF).
2023: Over 150,000 people lose their lives, and more than 12 million are displaced.
September 2023: Ghanaian coach Kwesi Appiah takes charge of the Sudanese national team.
2024: Sudan's football league is halted, with clubs like Al Hilal and Al Merrikh competing in foreign leagues.
October 2023: Sudan qualifies for the 2025 Afcon finals, marking a significant achievement amidst ongoing turmoil.

What’s new vs what’s known

New today/this week

As the team prepares for the Afcon tournament, players are facing tremendous emotional challenges, having lost friends and family members to the conflict. The need for unity and resilience has become a focal point for the squad, with coach Appiah emphasising the importance of mental fortitude.

What was already established

Prior to these recent developments, the ongoing civil war had already devastated the nation, crippling its infrastructure and leading to widespread famine. The football community was also affected, with many players seeking opportunities abroad as local leagues fell silent.

Impact for the UK

Consumers and households

The crisis in Sudan may not have direct implications for UK households, but the humanitarian aspect calls for awareness and support. The UK has a long history of engaging in humanitarian efforts, and current events may prompt increased advocacy for aid and refugee support.

Businesses and jobs

For UK businesses, particularly those involved in humanitarian aid or international relations, the situation may lead to new opportunities for partnerships aimed at providing support to Sudanese refugees and displaced populations.

Policy and regulation

The UK government may need to revisit policies regarding asylum and refugee support in light of the worsening humanitarian crisis in Sudan. Upcoming parliamentary discussions may focus on the UK's role in providing aid and support to those affected.

Numbers that matter

150,000+ deaths recorded since the onset of the civil war in April 2023.
Over 12 million people displaced, highlighting a significant humanitarian crisis.
Four-time Afcon finalists, with this being only their fourth appearance since 1976.
Sudan's football league has been inactive for over a year, pushing clubs to play abroad.
Ghanaian coach Kwesi Appiah took charge in September 2023, bringing leadership during a turbulent time.

Definitions and jargon buster

Afcon: Africa Cup of Nations, the premier international football competition in Africa.
RSF: Rapid Support Forces, a paramilitary group involved in the power struggle in Sudan.
Humanitarian crisis: A situation in which there is a widespread threat to life, health, or well-being of a large number of people.

How to think about the next steps

Near term (0–4 weeks)

As the Afcon tournament approaches, the Sudanese team will continue to prepare mentally and physically, while navigating the emotional toll of their circumstances. Continued support for humanitarian efforts will be crucial.

Medium term (1–6 months)

If the situation in Sudan remains unresolved, there may be increased calls for international intervention and support. With the Afcon tournament underway, the global spotlight could shift towards the needs of Sudanese people.

Signals to watch

Updates on the humanitarian situation in Sudan, including displacement numbers and aid responses.
Performance of the Sudanese national team in the Afcon tournament and its impact on national morale.
International responses and policy changes regarding Sudanese refugees in the UK and elsewhere.

Practical guidance

Do

Stay informed about the ongoing situation in Sudan through reputable sources.
Support humanitarian organisations providing aid to those affected by the conflict.
Engage in conversations about the importance of supporting refugees and displaced individuals.

Don’t

Ignore the humanitarian crisis or view it as a distant issue.
Assume the situation will resolve itself without international support.
Disregard the importance of sport in unifying communities during turmoil.

Checklist

Research local organisations providing aid to Sudanese refugees.
Follow the Sudan national team’s journey in the Afcon tournament.
Share information and resources about the crisis on social media to raise awareness.

Risks, caveats, and uncertainties

The situation in Sudan is fluid, with reports of violence and humanitarian needs evolving rapidly. Data on casualties and displacements may not always be accurate due to ongoing conflicts and communication challenges. While the Sudanese national team aims to uplift spirits, the reality on the ground remains dire, and the potential for further escalation should not be overlooked.

Bottom line

The Sudanese national football team's participation in the Afcon tournament represents more than just a game; it is a beacon of hope amid despair. As they play, they carry the hopes of a nation yearning for peace and stability. Supporting their journey not only highlights their resilience but also calls for global attention to the humanitarian crisis unfolding in Sudan.

FAQs

What is the current situation in Sudan?

The situation in Sudan is critical, with over 150,000 people killed and millions displaced due to the ongoing civil war that began in April 2023.

How is the Sudan national football team performing?

Despite the challenges of the civil war, the Sudan national football team has qualified for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations, aiming to inspire hope among their people.

What can people do to help Sudan?

Individuals can support humanitarian organisations working in Sudan and raise awareness about the crisis to encourage international aid and support.