Médecins Sans Frontières, also known as Doctors Without Borders, has called on authorities in central Darfur to enhance security measures to ensure the organization's safe operations in the region. On October 29, 2026, the organization met with the commander of the Rapid Support Forces in central Darfur, General Mohamed Adam Al-Bengoshi, to discuss ways to improve cooperation and coordination. The meeting aimed to facilitate the organization's work and ensure the safety of its medical teams in the state.

During the meeting, Médecins Sans Frontières emphasized its continued support for the Zalingi Teaching Hospital and other health centers, providing emergency services, childcare, and responding to diseases and epidemics, including measles. The organization provides services in several areas of central Darfur, including Zalingi, Wadi Salih, Mukjar, and North Jebel Marra. Médecins Sans Frontières highlighted the importance of providing necessary protection for its teams and facilitating their safe movement between these areas.

Médecins Sans Frontières has requested that commercial sites surrounding the Zalingi Teaching Hospital be removed, as well as Starlink networks from within the hospital. The organization also called for the activation of security agreements signed with the state's security committee to address challenges facing its medical operations. General Al-Bengoshi expressed appreciation for the organization's efforts in providing medical services in the state, stressing the responsibility of the Rapid Support Forces to protect and secure humanitarian and health-related activities.

The commander of the Rapid Support Forces in central Darfur invited Médecins Sans Frontières to enhance coordination with the leadership of the Rapid Support Forces in the state to ensure the safety of its employees and enable them to perform their tasks. Médecins Sans Frontières and the Rapid Support Forces discussed ways to improve cooperation and coordination to facilitate the organization's work and ensure the safety of its medical teams.

The Zalingi Teaching Hospital, where Médecins Sans Frontières provides services, is a critical healthcare facility in central Darfur. The hospital's educational page on Facebook provides updates on its activities and services. Médecins Sans Frontières' operations in central Darfur aim to provide essential medical services to the local population, particularly in areas affected by conflict.

The security situation in central Darfur remains a challenge for humanitarian organizations, including Médecins Sans Frontières. The organization has faced difficulties in accessing certain areas, which has impacted its ability to provide medical services. Enhanced security measures are necessary to ensure the safe delivery of humanitarian assistance.

Médecins Sans Frontières continues to work in Sudan, providing essential medical services to populations in need. The organization's efforts in central Darfur are critical to addressing the healthcare needs of the local population.

Key points

  • Médecins Sans Frontières requests removal of commercial sites near Zalingi Teaching Hospital.

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SaharaWire Newsroom
SaharaWire

Reporting for SaharaWire from the Nairobi bureau.