Sudan’s army has recaptured the town of Bara in North Kordofan, breaking RSF control after days of fighting. The victory, hailed by government officials as a turning point, underscores Bara’s importance as a logistical and symbolic prize. Yet aid groups warn that the siege of El Fasher in Darfur shows the conflict remains devastating for civilians.

Why Bara Matters

Bara’s location on the Omdurman–El Obeid highway makes it strategically indispensable. It links central Sudan to Kordofan and serves as a gateway toward Darfur. RSF had used Bara since 2023 as a base to launch raids on El Obeid, cutting supply chains and isolating army positions. Its recapture not only secures a key road but also allows the army to project strength deeper into western Sudan. Military experts note that if the army consolidates its hold, it could reduce RSF’s ability to disrupt transport of goods and reinforcements.

Impact on the Battlefield

The victory provides a morale boost for the army, which has been under pressure on multiple fronts. Analysts say retaking Bara could serve as a staging ground for offensives toward West Kordofan and eventually Darfur, potentially easing the isolation of El Fasher. However, the RSF still controls vast areas of Darfur and southern Sudan, meaning the battle lines are unlikely to shift dramatically without further advances. The fighting also comes at a high civilian cost, with local hospitals reporting casualties from shelling and shortages of medical supplies.

Humanitarian Consequences

Even as military momentum changes, the human situation deteriorates. Hundreds of wounded have fled El Fasher in recent weeks, many arriving in Tawila with untreated injuries. Food insecurity has reached famine thresholds in camps, while cholera outbreaks threaten thousands. Aid agencies stress that military gains like Bara will mean little unless safe corridors for relief are opened. With over 25 million Sudanese facing acute hunger, observers warn that each new front risks pushing the country deeper into collapse.