PHUTI MOSOMANE
The South African government is in the process of evacuating 77 of its nationals who are stranded in Sudan, according to an update from the Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO) on Monday.
Clayson Monyela, the department’s Head of Public Diplomacy, confirmed that the government has made every effort to evacuate its citizens from the war-torn Sudan.
“Latest number of verified SA nationals stuck in Sudan is 77. They’re all in a WhatsApp group with embassy staff (who are also still stuck there). Complaints of inconsistent or little to no communication from the team is noted. However, they’ve run out of diesel,” said Monyela.
He also revealed that there is currently “no electricity and therefore poor network coverage. They’ve since found a way to recharge batteries and will update SA nationals regarding evacuation plans.”
“Our security agencies are far advanced with the evacuation plan. Fighting hasn’t stopped, so it remains a dangerous and risky operation. The Airport is closed and all routes are not risk free. Without revealing security plans, there’s an option that is being implemented,” Monyela said on Monday morning.
He said evacuation of SA nationals in Sudan is ongoing as nationals and embassy staffs are on their way out of Khartoum.
“I can’t disclose the security and logistics of the operation. But they are moving out. We are in constant contact with them,” he added.
“The country’s main airport is damaged and has since closed. At the moment, the capital city Khartoum “is effectively a no-fly zone. Intense fighting is continuing.”
All routes leading out of Khartoum remain dangerous and very risky. Recently, the French convoy came under attack where casualties were reported.
“The SA government has explored all options and has settled on a particular plan. Coordination with the 77 SA nationals is underway. Our priority is to get everyone out. We understand the frustration and desperation. We’ll keep you & everyone posted,” he added.
Internet monitoring group NetBlocks reported that Sudan is experiencing an “internet blackout”. It said connectivity is at 2% hindering the coordination of help for those trapped in Khartoum and other cities.
The South African Government reiterates its appeal on the parties involved in the conflict in Sudan to heed international calls for an immediate ceasefire as unarmed civilians, including visitors from many parts of the world, remain stranded.
At least 331 people have been killed nationwide, including five aid workers, and nearly 3,200 have been injured.
Latest news reports indicate that bombing, shelling and gunfire have continued unabated, especially in the capital Khartoum, and the UN migration agency, International Organization for Migration, reported on Friday that one of its staff members had become a victim of the violence.
Many hospitals have had to close. And in those that are functioning, widespread blackouts and lack of electricity place patients at high risk.
Several hospitals have simply run out of blood and other lifesaving supplies.
The South African Government reiterates its appeal to the parties involved in the conflict in Sudan to heed international calls for an immediate ceasefire as unarmed civilians, including visitors from many parts of the world, remain stranded.
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