Beleaguered wild animals evacuated from Sudan to Jordan

Several wild animals “stuck in the middle of the conflict zone since the outbreak of the war”, were evacuated from El Gezira in Sudan last week, following the deterioration of safety conditions in the state due to the ongoing war between the Sudan Armed Forces (SAF) and the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF).

The evacuation on January 9 was coordinated by global animal welfare organisation FOUR PAWS*, in collaboration with the Jordanian Princess Alia Foundation**. In a press release earlier today, FOUR PAWS say that following a request by the Sudanese Wildlife authorities, they conducted a mission to rescue 15 lions, four hyenas, as well as wildcats, deer, birds, and reptiles from El Gezira. They were among 47 animals evacuated in November 2023 from Khartoum to El Dinder National Park in El Gezira, and to the Um Barona National Park in Wad Madani, the state capital.

“While the birds and deer could be released back into the wild or were locally rehomed, the other animals still need urgent and specialised intensive veterinary care that cannot be provided in Sudan” the organisation stated. The remaining animals were transported to Jordan for treatment.

‘These animals were stuck in the middle of the conflict zone since the outbreak of the war. They are traumatised and weakened…’ – Veterinarian Amir Khalil

FOUR PAWS veterinarian Amir Khalil, who led the rescue mission, said: “We knew as soon as we heard about the fighting in Wad Madani that we would need to get the animals out, so they have even a chance at survival. These animals were stuck in the middle of the conflict zone since the outbreak of the war. They are traumatised and weakened.

“This was a highly challenging effort and one of the most difficult emergency missions we ever did. When one plan became too risky because of fighting and escalations, we found another, safer way. It was very emotional for the whole team to receive these animals for a second time now although we had already thought them safe.”

In the early days of the war, El Gezira was a haven for those who fled fighting in Khartoum, North Kordofan, and other conflict areas. However, fighting spread to El Gezira in late 2023, prompting a ‘mass exodus’ out of the state. The RSF completely took over El Gezira in mid-December 2023.

*FOUR PAWS is a global animal welfare organisation for animals under direct human influence, which reveals suffering, rescues animals in need and protects them.

**The Princess Alia Foundation (PAF) was founded by HRH Princess Alia Al Hussein and is a registered non-profit NGO under the Ministry of Social Development of Jordan. Its aim is to promote compassion and respect for all Creation, using a holistic approach and bringing all stakeholders together to work as a united front.

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