Jessamy Nichols, Africa Correspondent
Last Modified: 23:56 p.m. DST, 26 August 2013

DARFUR, Sudan - When South Sudan gained its independence in 2011 after decades of struggle and strife, many citizens and international onlookers felt a sense of hope and relief that the dueling sides of Sudan would finally have their own national government and boundaries to consequently move towards peace and stability.

However, the trajectory since secession has been anything but smooth and easy, and citizens of both countries continue to experience violence and broken promises on a daily basis. This also applies to the situation in Darfur, which despite massive international campaigns for aid and awareness, still proves to be a volatile region of Sudan.

Displacement and murder are unfortunately no stranger to the region, and are being brought to light again as tensions flare between the Rizeigat and Ma'alia tribes. Since the start of August, hundreds have been killed from both sides of the clashes as each fight over land and power. The situation is increasingly complicated as the governments of Sudan and South Sudan are known to have been tied to feuding factions in Darfur, which exacerbates the conflict and helps it to continue.

The dangerous nature of the state of Darfur cannot be mended or even abated until the central government brings the perpetrators to justice and peace to the region. International aid workers and volunteers could help with this rebuilding, however their lack of support inhibits their ability to help. Just recently, unidentified gunmen raided an office of the American Refugee Council in Nyala. This clearly hinders the ability of outsiders to offer their assistance to the situation, and this cannot be improved until the central government steps in to provide security and safety for the region.

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