bbc.com
Omdurman After Two Years of Sudanese Conflict: Widespread Destruction and Displacement
After two years of displacement due to the Sudanese conflict that began in mid-April 2023, an Omdurman resident returned home to find widespread destruction, looting, and disrupted services, illustrating the war's devastating impact on civilian life and infrastructure.
- How has the conflict affected Omdurman's economic activity and infrastructure?
- The conflict caused significant damage to Omdurman's infrastructure and economy. The author's personal experience of finding their home looted reflects the widespread suffering of residents. The city's once-bustling market, a major economic hub in Sudan, is now desolate, highlighting the devastating impact of the war.
- What is the immediate impact of the Sudanese conflict on the civilian population of Omdurman?
- Following weeks of intense conflict between the Sudanese army and the Rapid Support Forces (RSF), beginning in mid-April 2023, a resident of Omdurman, Sudan, returned home to find widespread destruction. Homes and businesses were damaged or looted, and essential services were disrupted. The once-vibrant Omdurman market is now in ruins.
- What are the long-term implications of the conflict for the future of Omdurman and its residents?
- The conflict's long-term consequences for Omdurman are severe. The displacement of residents and damage to infrastructure will hinder economic recovery and social stability. The normalization of armed violence and looting pose a major obstacle to rebuilding the city and restoring peace.
Cognitive Concepts
Framing Bias
The framing of the article is heavily weighted towards portraying the suffering of civilians in Omdurman under the RSF's actions. The journalist's personal experience of returning to a devastated home and his encounters with displaced residents significantly shape the narrative. While acknowledging some actions of the army, the overall emphasis on the RSF's negative impacts might leave readers with a biased perception of the conflict's actors and responsibilities.
Language Bias
The language used is largely descriptive and evocative, aiming to convey the devastation and suffering experienced by the residents. While this approach is effective in conveying the emotional impact, some phrases like "war-torn city" or "devastated homes" could be considered slightly loaded. More neutral alternatives, such as "heavily damaged city" or "homes significantly damaged", might offer a more objective tone. The repeated use of descriptions emphasizing destruction and chaos reinforces a negative image of the situation.
Bias by Omission
The article focuses heavily on the destruction and suffering in Omdurman, offering a detailed account from the perspective of residents. However, it omits perspectives from members of the Rapid Support Forces (RSF), government officials beyond the quoted military commander, or international organizations involved in the conflict. This lack of diverse voices limits a complete understanding of the causes and consequences of the conflict and the different perspectives on the situation. The omission of casualty figures from both sides, beyond the anecdotal evidence from the hospital, prevents a full assessment of the human cost.
False Dichotomy
The article presents a somewhat simplistic dichotomy between the Sudanese army and the RSF, portraying the conflict as a clear-cut struggle for control. While the article notes some complexities, such as accusations against both sides of looting and violence against civilians, it doesn't delve deeply into the underlying political, economic, or social factors that fuel the conflict. The presentation of the conflict as primarily a military one, without significant discussion of the underlying causes, simplifies a complex situation.
Gender Bias
While the article includes several female voices, like that of Zubeida, their accounts are primarily focused on their suffering and survival during the conflict. There is no explicit gender bias in terms of language or description, however more nuanced representation of women's roles beyond victims might provide a more balanced view. The article could benefit from a wider range of female perspectives, including those in leadership roles or involved in relief efforts, to provide a more comprehensive understanding of gender dynamics within the conflict.
Sustainable Development Goals
The conflict has destroyed homes, businesses, and livelihoods, pushing many into poverty and destitution. The quote "If I don't come to the market, they will die of hunger too. I have no other options." exemplifies the desperate situation forcing people to risk their lives to survive.