Displaced Sudanese families are making their way back to Omdurman, west of Khartoum, as the city shows signs of recovery after nearly two years of war. Many are returning to observe the Muslim fasting month of Ramadan following the recent recapture of the city from Sudanese paramilitary forces.
However, returnees like Awad Zayed have found their homes in ruins, scarred by bullet holes and debris. Despite the devastation, daily life is slowly improving. Local resident Yousef Abdul Qader noted that while food prices were initially high, the reopening of roads and stabilization of supply routes have helped markets regain normalcy. “Every day, people return to their homes, and life is gradually returning to normal,” he said.
Charities are also stepping in to assist families. Gaith Abdul Qader, who runs a community kitchen, recalled that Omdurman was nearly deserted last year, but now his team is providing meals to dozens of returning residents.
Meanwhile, Sudan’s military continues to advance against the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF). As troops push into Greater Khartoum, they aim to reclaim key government institutions—a significant development in a conflict that has displaced millions and killed tens of thousands since April 2023.