The World Council of Churches General Secretary has stressed the important role of Sudanese churches in rebuilding their nation after years of conflict.

Elements of government forces, along with armed militias, have been accused of carrying out multiple large-scale attacks against civilians in North Darfur.

Religious leaders have warned of mass suffering in Sudan’s so-called ‘Two Areas’, as bombardment intensifies and civilians become targets.

The Sudanese authorities have been told to stop the torture and ill-treatment of those detained following demonstrations since mid-June 2012.