Sudan conflict and displacement: The crucial role played by women in peacebuilding

Since April 2023, Sudan has  experienced one of the world’s fastest-growing displacement and humanitarian crises. Women and girls are among the most affected, often facing multiple forms of violence and exclusion. Yet, even in this challenging context, women  are stepping forward, transforming their lives and communities through leadership opportunities supported by UN Women and local partners.

Thanawiah, a 35-year-old mother of five from Um Al-Qura, once lived a quiet life within her neighborhood, hesitant to step beyond her circle. She admired those who could speak in public but never believed she could be one of them. “I need to help myself first—what do I have to do with others?” she often thought.

Everything changed when a friend encouraged her to join a peace forum organized by UN Women in a partnership with Peace Initiative and Development Organization (DPI), with support from the Government of Japan. At first, Thanawiah felt overwhelmed by the number of participants and wanted to leave. But with encouragement from her friend and the organizing team, she stayed—and for the first time, she shared her opinion in front of other women.

By the second forum, her confidence had grown. She prepared in advance, spoke with conviction, and represented the women of Um Al-Qura on issues like violence, racism, and insecurity. The experience awakened in her a sense of responsibility and the belief that she could become a voice for change.

Thanawiah soon took the bold step of leading her own community session. She invited women who had never participated in activities before and facilitated a discussion on threats to peace in her area. Standing before them, she realized she had become a leader.

“I feel like I’ve been born again,” she said. “I don’t want any other woman to live without knowing. Life has many opportunities—even the smallest ones can make a difference. Don’t close yourselves off within the family. Go out and look for the good things. They exist.”

Today, Thanawiah continues to speak up, inspire others, and play an active role in building peace. Her journey from fear to leadership shows how, when given the chance, women can transform not only their own lives but also the futures of their communities.

Thanawiah’s story is just one example of how women, when supported with the right spaces and encouragement, can transform from participants into leaders. In a country where over 12 million people have been displaced, women’s leadership is essential not only for survival but also for rebuilding peace and resilience in their communities.