Ethiopia Allegedly Hosts Training Camp for Sudan's RSF Fighters

Ethiopia is reportedly operating a covert training facility for Sudan's Rapid Support Forces (RSF) in the Benishangul-Gumuz region near the Sudanese border. Satellite imagery and diplomatic sources indicate that the camp, located approximately 32 kilometers from Sudan, began construction in April 2025, with significant developments observed by October.

As of early January 2026, around 4,300 RSF fighters were undergoing training at the site, according to an internal Ethiopian security note. The facility is reportedly overseen by General Getachew Gudina, Chief of the Defense Intelligence Department of the Ethiopian National Defense Force.

The United Arab Emirates (UAE) is alleged to have financed the camp's construction and provided military trainers and logistical support. However, the UAE has denied any involvement in the conflict, stating it is not a party to the hostilities.

The RSF has been engaged in a civil war with the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) since 2023, leading to significant humanitarian crises and regional instability.

Ethiopian officials have not publicly commented on these allegations. The Sudanese army has expressed concerns over potential RSF attacks originating from Ethiopian territory, particularly targeting towns in Sudan's Blue Nile region.

The proximity of the training camp to the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD) has raised additional concerns about the potential risks to critical infrastructure amid escalating regional tensions.