Displaced Sudanese families are making their way back to Omdurman, west of Khartoum, as the city shows signs of recovery following nearly two years of war.

With the Sudanese military regaining control from paramilitary forces, many residents have returned to observe the Muslim fasting month of Ramadan.

However, for some, like Awad Zayed, the homecoming has been bittersweet, as they find their houses in ruins, riddled with bullet holes and debris.

Despite the destruction, normalcy is gradually returning. According to local resident Yousef Abdul Qader, food prices were initially high, but with roads reopening and supply routes improving, markets are stabilizing.

“Every day, people return to their homes, and life is gradually returning to normal,” he said.

Humanitarian efforts are also aiding the transition. Gaith Abdul Qader, who manages a community kitchen, noted that while Omdurman was almost empty last year, his team is now feeding dozens of people daily as families resettle.

Meanwhile, the Sudanese military continues to advance against the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF), pushing further into Greater Khartoum. Their goal is to reclaim key government institutions, marking a crucial stage in a conflict that has displaced millions and left tens of thousands dead since April 2023.