Darfur Joint Protection Force
The Darfur Joint Protection Force, or more simply the Joint Darfur Force/Joint Force, is a formerly defensive force that was set up during the Battle of El Fasher claiming to neutrally protect civilians during the War in Sudan (2023) by peacekeeping. It was formed on 27 April 2023 by four former rebel groups and signatures of the Juba peace agreement. The participating groups are SLM-Minawi, the Justice and Equality Movement, the Sudanese Alliance, and the Gathering of Sudan Liberation Forces. It is currently led by Darfur Region Governor Minni Minawi.
| Darfur Joint Protection Force | |
|---|---|
| Leader | Minni Minnawi |
| Foundation | 27 April 2023 |
| Dates of operation | 27 April 2023–present |
| Country | Sudan |
| Active regions | Darfur |
| Allies | None |
| Opponents | Rapid Support Forces |
| Battles and wars | War in Sudan (2023–present) |
The Joint Force has been criticised for its incompetence in ensuring the safety of civilians across Darfur. According to Major Ahmed Hussein Mustafa, the head of the media committee for the joint force, the force's limited capabilities and logistical support have prevented it from deploying forces across Darfur. The force has also been accused of not showing up on time after residents had been killed or not even showing up at all.
As of 29 August, the Joint Force controls the roads linking North and West Kordofan with Darfur.