Burhan visits key North Kordofan city twice in 24 hours

February 2, 2025 (UM RUWABA) – Sudan’s military ruler, Abdel Fattah al-Burhan, made a second visit in 24 hours to the strategic city of Um Rawaba in North Kordofan state on Sunday, underscoring its importance in the ongoing conflict.

Al-Burhan inspected troops from the army and allied forces, known as the “Al-Sayyad” force, which captured the city last Thursday, pushing back the Rapid Support Forces (RSF), according to a military statement. The force has since advanced towards Al-Rahad, about 79 km (49 miles) from El Obeid, the state capital.

Al-Burhan’s visit follows a brief stop in Um Rawaba on Saturday, part of a tour that also included Tendelti in White Nile state and Merowe in River Nile state.

“Al-Burhan arrived in Um Rawaba… and inspected the Al-Sayyad forces after it was cleared of the RSF and security and stability were restored,” the Sovereign Council said. It added that he toured the city and saw evidence of RSF abuses.

According to a video released by the Sovereign Council media, Al-Burhan reiterated his commitment to “continue the battle until the defeat of the rebellion in Kaduglei and Nyala.”

Um Rawaba’s strategic significance lies in its location, connecting central Sudan via the White Nile to North Kordofan and areas further west, including Darfur.

Retired Brigadier General Jamal al-Shahid told Sudan Tribune that control of Um Rawaba provides the army with a key foothold in North Kordofan, securing its rear lines and preventing RSF incursions. He said the city is a vital link between Khartoum and the White Nile to Kordofan and Darfur, facilitating the movement of supplies and reinforcements.

Al-Shahid added that the army’s control of Um Rawaba disrupts crucial RSF supply lines between Darfur and central Sudan, hindering their ability to regroup and redeploy. He suggested the city could be used as a base for operations to retake RSF-held territory in Kordofan and Darfur, noting its resources and international airport.

Al-Shahid speculated that al-Burhan’s visit aimed to assess the military situation, plan future operations, and boost the morale of troops and local residents.

Um Rawaba is a key commercial and agricultural hub in North Kordofan. Fighting between the army and the RSF, which erupted in April 2023, has caused a humanitarian crisis and displaced millions.