77 South Africans still stuck in Sudan - DIRCO
The Department of International Relations and Cooperation has confirmed that some 77 South African nationals are still stuck in violence-torn Sudan.
This as the government has voiced its concerns about the unfolding situation in Sudan, where violence erupted nine days ago following a breakdown in negotiations on political and security sector reforms.
The department's spokesperson Clayson Monyela says the 77 nationals are in communication with the embassy staff via WhatsApp.
“They're all in a WhatsApp group with embassy staff (who are also still stuck there). Complaints of inconsistent/little/no communication from the team is noted. However, they've run out of diesel.
“There's no electricity & therefore poor network coverage. They've since found a way to recharge batteries & will update SA nationals regarding evacuation plans.”
Monyela adds that while the evacuation plan by security agencies are at an advanced stage, fighting hasn't stopped.
This makes it a dangerous operation.
“The airport is closed and all routes are not risk- free. The government is doing everything possible to get our nationals out. Without revealing security plans, there's an option that is being implemented. Updates will be provided," Monyela says.
Latest number of verified SA nationals stuck in #Sudan is 77. They're all in a WhatsApp group with embassy staff (who are also still stuck there). Complaints of inconsistent/little/no communication from the team is noted. However, they've run out of diesel. There's no electricity…
— Clayson Monyela (@ClaysonMonyela) April 23, 2023
