It lies north along the Marrah Mountains; the Kutum volcanic field is better known as the Tagabo Hills.

Other facilities in the town includes a hospital with basic medical and surgical services and a small botanical gardens alongside the Wadi and the market.

[4] The area northeast of town is largely controlled by the rebel Sudan Liberation Movement, while 'Arab' militias such as the Janjaweed are to the south and west.

[7] Two camps for internally displaced persons, Fatta Borno and Kassab, formed near the town.

[12] The Battle of Kutum broke out in the War in Sudan (2023) and ended with a RSF victory gaining control of the town.

[13] On March 17, Hemedti threatened to dismantle IDP camps across Sudan, including those in Kutum.