Ethiopian Premier Abiy Ahmed made history by being the first foreign leader to visit Sudan’s army chief General Abdel Fattah al-Burhan in Port Sudan amidst an ongoing conflict between the army and the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF). The visit, aimed at restoring stability in Sudan after 15 months of turmoil, was seen as a pivotal moment in the region’s peace efforts.
With almost 10 million people displaced and famine-like conditions emerging, the war has divided Sudan between the RSF and the army. Abiy’s visit signaled a step towards peace, especially after failed ceasefire attempts in the past.
As images of the leaders walking hand in hand surfaced, hopes for a breakthrough in negotiations grew. The visit also marked a significant move on Abiy’s part to personally engage in finding solutions for Sudan’s stability, despite past tensions and allegations of external interference.
With Abiy’s commitment to mediation and peacebuilding, the region looks towards a potential turning point in the ongoing conflict.