Manitoba man worried for loved ones as fighting in Sudan continues

Mekki Mekki Mohamed is a Winnipeg man who worries for his family living in Khartoum, where fighting between rival factions of the country's military continues.

For a Winnipeg man, weekly communications with family in Sudan was the one gateway he had in remaining connected with what was happening back home.

But since fighting broke out between forces under the command of the country’s top two generals, Mekki Mekki Mohamed has been worried about the safety of his loved ones.

Mohamed moved to Winnipeg 23 years ago and is a teacher at the Al Hijra Islamic School. He lives in the city with his two daughters, but his father and other extended relatives continue to reside in the Sudanese capital of Khartoum.

“I don’t think I should just speak about myself. When I speak, I speak (for) every Sudanese,” said Mohamed.

Clashes began on April 15, amid plans to transfer control of the country to a civilian government. For Mohamed, it still isn’t clear why the rival generals are fighting each other.

“Nobody is going to win,” said Mohamed. “There is no winner.”

Canadian military personnel are in Sudan, assisting with evacuation efforts. 150 Canadians have already been evacuated.

Global Affairs Minister Melanie Joy said there are 1,800 Canadians in Sudan registered with the federal government. The government updated its travel advisory to Sudan, warning Canadians to avoid all travel to the country. The Embassy of Canada has also temporarily suspended operations.