Experiencing the hell of Darfur

By: Ed Beavan.

“WELCOME to hell.” This was grim greeting which welcomed Brian Steidle (pictured) to Darfur three years ago.

As his helicopter touched down he was told there had just been an attack on innocent civilians by government forces. Little did the former US marine know how accurate a description of Darfur this would prove to be.
During this time the former marine largely enjoyed the experience as he patrolled the vast region learning about the culture and conflict and frequently receiving generous hospitality from the indigenous peoples. But when another aid worker showed him photos of the carnage that was unfolding in Darfur, Steidle’s adventurous spirit saw him put in for a transfer to eastern Sudan, even though the true nature of the situation was still hazy for the international community. “I had no idea what to expect when I accepted the mission to go to Darfur, there had been rumours but nobody really knew what was going on there,” he said. Read more >>>