Sudan: MSF Calls for Stronger Security Measures to Protect Its Work in Central Darfur

What the report says

Médecins Sans Frontières has asked authorities in Central Darfur to improve security around its operations in Zalingei, including removing commercial sites near Zalingei Teaching Hospital and clearing Starlink networks from inside the facility. According to the report published by Dabanga via AllAfrica, the request was raised during a meeting in Zalingei between a Spanish MSF team and Major General Mohamed Adam El Banjous, the Rapid Support Forces commander in Central Darfur.

The discussion focused on better coordination so MSF medical staff can move more safely across the state and continue working without disruption. MSF said it wants the security agreements already signed with the state’s security committee to be put into effect, citing ongoing challenges affecting its medical activities.

The organisation said it continues to support Zalingei Teaching Hospital and other health centres in Central Darfur, with services that include emergency care, paediatrics, and responses to disease outbreaks such as measles. It also said it operates in several areas of the state, including Zalingei, Wadi Salih, Mukjar and northern Jebel Marra.

The report says El Banjous praised MSF’s work and said RSF forces are responsible for protecting humanitarian and health facilities. He urged closer coordination with MSF leadership in the state so staff can work more safely. The development comes against the backdrop of Sudan’s wider conflict, which has made humanitarian access and medical operations more difficult in many regions.