Satellite imagery taken between January 2nd and January 17th reveals a significant increase in the size of displacement camps in El Obeid, the capital of North Kordofan State, Sudan. The images highlight a concerning trend of escalating displacement within the region.
Time-lapse comparisons of the satellite photos clearly show an expansion of the areas occupied by temporary shelters within the city. This suggests a new wave of refugees arrived during the first half of January. This influx reinforces El Obeid’s position as a temporary settlement and a key transit point for individuals fleeing conflict zones to the south.
High-resolution satellite images captured between January 2nd and 14th show an expansion of refugee tents near the city’s land port. The area covered by the camp grew by approximately 67,000 square meters during this period. Medium-resolution images taken on January 17th indicate that the camp expanded again between January 14th and 17th, with a further increase of about 4,800 square meters.
Satellite images indicate that these camps were first observed in July 2024, with continuous expansion recorded in subsequent periods, culminating in the recent increase observed in early January. The growth reflects the dire humanitarian situation in the region.
The city of El Obeid holds strategic importance in the displacement landscape of western and southern Sudan. Its geographical location connects the Kordofan states with routes leading to other, relatively more stable, states. This makes it a crucial hub for those seeking refuge from ongoing conflicts.
DZWatch will continue to monitor the situation and provide updates as they become available.
