Ethiopian Observer – Addis Ababa

The Chairperson of the African Union Commission has condemned in the strongest terms the horrific attacks in Kalogi, South Kordofan, which claimed the lives of more than 100 civilians, including dozens of women and children in a nursery.

According to the statement, the deliberate targeting of children, teachers, medical personnel, and civilians who were trying to aid the wounded, as reported in media accounts, constitutes a flagrant violation of international humanitarian law and human rights law.

The Chairperson expressed profound dismay at the repeated and escalating atrocities committed against civilians in the region, as well as deep concern over reports of continued aerial bombardment, drone attacks, and assaults on vital civilian infrastructure, including hospitals and schools.

All parties were called upon to implement an immediate and unconditional ceasefire to stop the bloodshed and to provide full protection for civilians – particularly children, women, and the elderly – in accordance with international law.

The Chairperson of the African Union Commission urged unimpeded access for humanitarian aid to enable affected communities to reach life-saving assistance and stressed the necessity of accountability for all violations, calling for independent investigations to ensure those responsible for these heinous acts are brought to justice.

The African Union expressed solidarity with the Sudanese people and reaffirmed its commitment to working with regional and international partners to prevent further atrocities and support a return to dialogue, peace, and stability.

African Union

The African Union (AU) is a continental organization established in 2002, succeeding the Organization of African Unity (OAU) founded in 1963. Its primary aims are to promote unity, peace, and socio-economic development across Africa, while advancing democratic governance and human rights. The AU is headquartered in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, and plays a key role in coordinating pan-African political and economic initiatives.

South Kordofan

South Kordofan is a state in central Sudan, historically significant as part of the ancient Nubian region and later a key area in the Mahdist state of the late 19th century. In modern times, it has been a major flashpoint in Sudan’s civil conflicts, particularly between the Sudanese government and the Sudan People’s Liberation Movement, largely due to issues of governance, resources, and the status of the Nuba Mountains population. Its cultural landscape is marked by diverse ethnic groups, including the Nuba peoples, known for their rich traditions in wrestling, music, and agriculture.

Kalogi

“Kalogi” refers to a traditional Greek folk dance, not a specific place or cultural site. It is a lively circle dance from the island of Karpathos, particularly associated with the village of Olympos. The dance has been passed down through generations and is often performed at festivals and celebrations, preserving the island’s unique musical and cultural heritage.

Sudan

Sudan is a country in Northeast Africa with a rich ancient history, most notably as the location of the Kingdom of Kush, which ruled from the city of Meroë and even conquered Egypt to establish the 25th Dynasty. Today, it is home to numerous UNESCO World Heritage Sites, including the archaeological sites of the Island of Meroë with its distinctive pyramids and the ancient Napatan region.