Rome, September 2025 – Pope Leo XIV has extended his heartfelt spiritual closeness to the people of Sudan following the devastating landslide that struck Tarsin (Tarasin) village in Sudan’s Central Darfur region on August 31, 2025, killing an estimated 1,000 people. He also launched an urgent appeal to the international community to provide humanitarian aid to millions suffering amid Sudan’s ongoing war, famine, and cholera epidemic.
Papal Telegram of Consolation
In a telegram dated September 2 and addressed to Bishop Yunan Tombe Trille Kuku Andali of the Diocese of El Obeid, Pope Leo XIV said he was “deeply saddened” by the tragedy and assured all those affected of his spiritual solidarity.
Signed by Cardinal Pietro Parolin, the Vatican Secretary of State, the telegram prayed for the eternal repose of the deceased, comfort for grieving families, and encouragement for civil authorities and emergency workers engaged in relief efforts. “He willingly invokes upon the nation the divine blessings of consolation and strength,” the message concluded.
Appeal for Humanitarian Aid
During his General Audience on Wednesday, September 3, Pope Leo XIV broadened his appeal, urging the international community to respond to the wider humanitarian crisis in Sudan.
“Dramatic news is coming out of Sudan, particularly from Darfur. In El Fasher, numerous civilians are trapped in the city, victims of famine and violence,” the Pope said. Calling for humanitarian corridors and coordinated relief, he stressed:
“It is time to initiate a serious, sincere and inclusive dialogue between the parties to end the conflict and restore hope, dignity and peace to the people of Sudan.”
He condemned the suffering caused by Sudan’s 29-month civil war, which has left up to 150,000 people dead, displaced 12 million, and plunged 30 million into humanitarian need, including 680,000 facing catastrophic food insecurity.
Prayer for Landslide Victims
Referring directly to the disaster in Tarasin, where torrential rains triggered the landslide in the Marra Mountains, the Pope prayed in English:
“In Tarasin, a devastating landslide has caused many deaths, leaving behind pain and despair. And, as if that were not enough, the spread of cholera threatens hundreds of thousands of people who are already exhausted. I am closer than ever to the Sudanese people, especially families, children and displaced persons. I pray for all the victims. I ask all of you to join me in praying for those affected by the recent mudslides in the Marra Mountains of Sudan.”
Invoking the eternal peace of the Lord upon the deceased, and solace for their families, Pope Leo concluded:
“Even in the midst of such tragedies may we never lose hope in God’s love for us.”
A Nation in Crisis
The landslide has further deepened Sudan’s suffering amid a civil war that erupted in April 2023 between the Sudanese Armed Forces and the Rapid Support Forces. Entire towns remain under siege, including El Fasher, Kadugli, and El Obeid, where humanitarian access has been blocked. UN agencies warn of famine, widespread displacement, and a deadly cholera outbreak that continues to spread.
Closing Reflection
As Sudan faces one of the world’s most severe humanitarian emergencies, Pope Leo XIV’s words echo the global Church’s call to solidarity: a commitment to prayer, compassion, and coordinated international action to restore peace, dignity, and hope to a people enduring profound suffering.
