Ramadan in Sudan is overshadowed by a severe humanitarian crisis due to ongoing conflict. With soaring prices in Port Sudan and famine spreading in other regions, residents face acute shortages and high living costs. Traditional Ramadan traditions, such as community meals, are increasingly replaced by desperation as basic goods become unaffordable and aid remains insufficient.
In Port Sudan, residents are preparing for Ramadan amidst a backdrop of soaring prices due to ongoing conflict in the country. Basic holiday staples have become unaffordable, overshadowed by the dire situation in war-torn areas where famine and severe shortages prevail. Although Port Sudan serves as a relatively safe haven, the rising cost of essential goods is a significant burden for families. Sugar has surged to 2,400 Sudanese pounds ($1) per kilogram, while veal and mutton are priced at 24,000 and 28,000 pounds, respectively.
The average monthly salary in Sudan is approximately $60, but many public employees have not received wages during the war. The local currency has depreciated dramatically, with its value plummeting from 600 pounds to the US dollar to 2,400 pounds on the parallel market. Official figures indicate inflation soared to 145 percent in January. In some regions, residents face not just high prices but also a critical lack of available food.
The conflict, which has persisted since April 2023 between rival military factions, has resulted in thousands of fatalities and displaced over 12 million individuals. Key supply routes have been severed, particularly in the western regions of Darfur and Kordofan, where starvation is increasingly prevalent. According to UN assessments, famine currently affects three displacement camps in North Darfur, with projections indicating further spread by May.
Residents in Darfur are resorting to extreme measures for survival, such as consuming peanut shells and tree leaves. Humanitarian efforts are hampered by violence, further complicating the distribution of aid. The UN’s World Food Programme has been compelled to halt operations in areas affected by famine due to escalating hostilities. A humanitarian worker commented on the distressing situation, highlighting severe shortages of food and clean drinking water.
Warnings from UN officials underscore the potential for catastrophic outcomes if aid does not surge. The UN human rights chief cautioned that Sudan teeters on the edge of chaos, with widespread famine posing an imminent threat to life. Reports indicate that many markets in conflict zones have been destroyed, limiting access to food products.
In Khartoum, as conflict escalates, volunteers attempt to provide aid, yet the demand exceeds the available resources. Ramadan traditions that once fostered community spirit have diminished. One resident lamented the loss of communal iftar meals, previously a hallmark of the month, as these acts of generosity are no longer feasible. The memories of shared meals and decorations during Ramadan reflect the profound loss experienced amidst the ongoing turmoil.
The situation in Sudan during Ramadan is grim, as the conflict and inflation have severely impacted food availability and affordability. Many families struggle to purchase basic staples, with some areas facing famine and dire humanitarian conditions. Traditional celebrations and the communal spirit of Ramadan are stifled as violence disrupts daily life and humanitarian efforts. Without immediate assistance, the plight of the Sudanese population may worsen significantly, highlighting the urgent need for global attention and action.
Original Source: www.arabnews.com
