The last group of South Africans stranded in war-torn Sudan arrived on Sunday following a rescue mission described by Dirco as ‘dangerous’ when civilians got caught up in the crossfire in clashes between government forces and the rebel group, Rapid Support Forces (RSF).
Several people have lost their lives in skirmishes recently because of the power struggle in Sudan which intensified recently when the Sudanese armed forces loyal to General Abdel Fattah al-Burhan, the country’s ruler, clashed with the RSF forces aligned with General Mohamed Hamdan Dagalo, also known as Hemedti.
The situation forced many countries to evacuate their citizens as did South Africa. However, reports are that some South Africans are still stranded in Egypt without any documents. But South Africa was in contact with that government to try and resolve the matter.
But for those who came straight from Sudan, it was joy and relief at OR Tambo International when they landed and met with family, friends and government officials as they welcomed 51 South Africans and two foreigners.
This led to many countries seeking to evacuate their citizens and South Africa also wasn’t left behind.
But in the end it was all joy and relief at OR Tambo International Airport at the 51 South Afrians and two foreigners landed to be met by flower carrying family, friends and government officials..
International Relations Minister Naledi Pandor thanked everyone who worked with South Africa and acknowledged that theirs was a very traumatic experience.
“We thank everyone who has worked with us. I know it is a very traumatic experience, you want to be home with your families, children want to be home, but we could not let this moment pass.
“A partnership that included support from the Gift of the Givers, a very wonderful non governmental organization, has provided an immense relief all over the world whenever South Africans needed assistance,” the Minister said.
She also thanked the ambassador of Sudan to South Africa for being there to help when needed.
“I don’t think we should desert the people of Sudan. It’s South Africa’s policy that wherever we can in Africa … to silence the guns. We are unhappy when we see fellow Africans suffering and experiencing what the people of Sudan are going through.
“So we will try to make every effort to really engage with the current conflict party in Sudan to persuade them to lay down arms to work for peace.”
