Rise of a Warlord: The Saga of Hemedti in Sudan

Tue Nov 04 2025 18:50:14 GMT+0200 (Eastern European Standard Time)

Mohamed Hamdan Dagolo, aka Hemedti, transitioned from humble beginnings to controlling half of Sudan through his paramilitary forces, embroiled in ongoing conflict and controversies.

Mohamed Hamdan Dagolo, known as Hemedti, transformed from a camel trader to a powerful warlord in Sudan, leading the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) and now controlling significant territories amid ongoing violence and accusations of human rights abuses. Born into a camel herding family, Hemedti has navigated Sudan's turbulent political landscape, leveraging opportunities to build a gold empire while facing international scrutiny for past atrocities and current military actions. His complex relationship with power raises questions about his ambitions and the future of Sudan.

Mohamed Hamdan Dagolo, also known as Hemedti, is a prominent figure within Sudan's ever-shifting political landscape, having transformed from a humble trader of camels and gold to controlling half the country through the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF).

Recently, Hemedti's RSF took a significant step in their campaign by overtaking el-Fasher, the last stronghold of the Sudanese army in the west. While he is feared by many for his ruthless tactics, his supporters view him as a champion aiming to dismantle a failed state.

Hemedti's early life was marked by challenges; born around 1974 or 1975, his family migrated to Darfur seeking refuge from conflict. After leaving school in his teens, he began trading camels, establishing connections that would propel his rise during a tumultuous period in Sudan's history.

During the Darfur conflict, which escalated in 2003, Hemedti's background as a camel trader served him well. He initially supported the Janjaweed militia, notorious for brutal actions against local populations, a role that led to international allegations of genocide.

Despite these early affiliations, Hemedti skillfully navigated his way into a powerful position post-rebellion, ultimately becoming the leader of the RSF. His forces have since expanded, often employing both military might and connections to a lucrative gold trade to solidify their control.

Currently, the RSF is embroiled in ongoing conflict with the Sudanese army, with accusations of human rights abuses and war crimes against civilians increasing as hostilities continue. Hemedti's role as both a military leader and a businessman complicates Sudan’s political future, leaving many questioning whether he harbors ambitions for national control.

The international community continues to scrutinize his actions, raising concerns over the implications of his leadership and the RSF's military campaigns across Sudan.