New Sudanese organisation steps forward to support peace efforts
As Sudan plunges deeper into one of the worst conflicts in its modern history, a new group of Sudanese leaders and experts is stepping forward to push for peace, democracy and humanitarian support.
The Sudan International Contact Group (SICG), registered as a not-for-profit organisation in the United Kingdom with offices in London and Nairobi, has been launched by Sudanese expatriates, academics, former diplomats, and peacebuilders determined to respond to the worsening crisis.
It will work to promote peace, democracy and stability in Sudan by facilitating dialogue, supporting humanitarian access and engaging with international partners.
Founding members include Dr. Nasredeen Abdulbari, Sudan’s former Minister of Justice, Dr Gony Mustafa A. Sharif, Adam Hassaballa Ahmed Mohamed, Mayada Mohamed and Amani Alsanosi.
Together, they bring decades of combined experience in governance, law, human rights and conflict resolution.
Speaking to reporters, SICG Deputy Chairman Dr Gony Mustafa Sharif said the group had been formed “to ensure the Sudanese people’s voice is heard, to encourage inclusive dialogue, and to support efforts that end violence and lay the groundwork for a just and lasting peace”.
Sudanese people ‘deserve a future based on democracy’
The organisation’s stated aims are to promote dialogue between warring Sudanese factions, push for greater international engagement in peace efforts and advocate for the protection of civilians caught in the crossfire.
SICG members are already engaging with policymakers in the UK, Africa and beyond to co-ordinate humanitarian access and diplomatic efforts.
Dr Nasredeen Abdulbari, who served as Justice Minister before Sudan’s political collapse, said the group would serve as a critical bridge between Sudanese civil society and the international community.
The Sudanese people deserve a future based on justice, dignity and democracy,
“SICG was established to make sure the world listens to their aspirations, and to help craft a political settlement that ends cycles of conflict and oppression once and for all.”
SICG has also warned against the actions of the Sudan Armed Forces (SAF) and its allies, accusing them of stalling negotiations and escalating violence. In its latest statement, the group said the conflict now threatens to engulf previously safer regions, including Port Sudan.
Global support is critical
Dr Gony Mustafa Sharif said the refusal of the SAF and its allies to negotiate “is the reason for expanding the war to new areas”.
He said: “If this continues, more regions beyond Port Sudan will be dragged into the conflict.”
As humanitarian conditions inside Sudan worsen, SICG says it will continue to push for immediate action to protect civilians and secure a political solution.
Founded on the principle that Sudanese-led solutions are essential, but that global support is equally critical, SICG hopes its work can galvanise renewed international efforts to end Sudan’s latest cycle of violence.
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