Libya’s Al Kufra municipality is now home to over 40,000 officially registered Sudanese refugees, according to a statement from Abdullah Suleiman, spokesperson for the municipality.
This number does not account for the many refugees who have entered the country without registration, suggesting the true figure may be much higher. The influx of refugees comes in the wake of Sudan’s ongoing civil war, which has driven tens of thousands to seek safety in neighboring countries like Libya and Egypt.
Suleiman emphasized the difficult humanitarian conditions the refugees face, describing the lack of adequate support from both local and international organizations. “The situation is dire, and the assistance we’re receiving is minimal,” he said, highlighting the urgent need for greater humanitarian aid to address the growing crisis.
As violence continues to engulf Sudan, an increasing number of refugees are fleeing across the border into Libya. Al Kufra, a southeastern town close to the Sudanese border, has become a primary destination for many seeking refuge from the conflict. However, the remote town, which already struggles with limited resources, has been overwhelmed by the sheer number of refugees arriving in recent months.
The conflict in Sudan, which erupted in 2023 between rival military factions, has displaced millions, with thousands fleeing to neighboring countries in search of safety. Libya’s proximity to Sudan has made it one of the primary destinations for these refugees, despite Libya’s own political instability and economic challenges.
Libyan authorities, particularly in Al Kufra, have been stretched thin in their attempts to manage the crisis, with local infrastructure unable to keep up with the growing demand for basic necessities such as food, clean water, shelter, and medical care.
Libya, which has faced its own civil war and political divisions since the overthrow of Muammar Gaddafi in 2011, is dealing with significant internal challenges. The country remains divided between rival governments and is still recovering from years of conflict. This instability has made it difficult for local authorities to adequately respond to the influx of Sudanese refugees.
Despite these challenges, Libya continues to act as a crucial destination for refugees fleeing violence in Sudan. Many refugees view Libya not only as a temporary safe haven but also as a potential gateway to Europe, where they hope to rebuild their lives. However, Libya’s ongoing political and economic difficulties raise concerns about its ability to support the increasing number of refugees.
The conflict in Sudan has triggered a widespread humanitarian crisis across North Africa. The war, which has caused massive internal displacement, has also forced tens of thousands of Sudanese citizens to flee to countries like Libya, Egypt, and Chad. This has placed additional strain on these nations, particularly in terms of resources and infrastructure.
