UAE-Funded Secret Camp in Ethiopia Trains RSF Fighters

On Tuesday, Reuters revealed documented information indicating that Ethiopia is hosting a camp to train thousands of fighters from the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) militia, the militia fighting Sudan’s government army, with UAE support and funding.

According to Reuters, the camp represents the first direct evidence of Ethiopia’s involvement in the Sudanese war, a development that could be particularly serious as it provides the RSF militia with substantial new manpower amid escalating fighting in southern Sudan.

Eight sources, including a senior Ethiopian government official, told Reuters that the UAE financed the construction of the camp and provided military trainers and logistical support for the site. This was also referenced in an internal Ethiopian security memo and a diplomatic cable reviewed by Reuters.

Reuters was unable to independently verify the UAE’s involvement in the project or the specific purpose of the camp. The UAE Ministry of Foreign Affairs, in response to a request for comment, stated that it is not a party to the Sudanese conflict and is not participating in any combat activities.

Reuters spoke with 15 sources familiar with the camp’s construction and operations, including Ethiopian officials and diplomats, and analyzed satellite imagery of the area.