Ramadan in War-Torn Sudan: A Struggle Against Famine and Inflation

In Sudan, the ongoing war has led to skyrocketing prices and severe food shortages as residents prepare for Ramadan. Essential goods are unaffordable for many, with inflation impacting income and accessibility. Humanitarian conditions are dire, particularly in conflict zones like Darfur, where famine is taking hold. Traditional communal observances are diminishing as violence disrupts aid efforts.

In Port Sudan, a city on the eastern coast, residents are preparing for Ramadan amidst soaring prices due to the ongoing conflict in Sudan. Families struggle to afford essential supplies as the war, now nearly two years old, has led to rampant inflation and scarcity of goods. Sugar, an essential for breaking the fast, costs 2,400 Sudanese pounds ($1) per kilo, while mutton and veal prices are significantly high.

Residents express their discontent regarding the exorbitant costs of basic food items. Mahmoud Abd El Kader lamented, “We are struggling to afford Ramadan goods,” while Hassan Osman echoed the sentiment, stating, “Prices are too high, goods are too expensive, people cannot afford them.” With an average monthly income of around $60, many public workers have gone without pay, further exacerbating their financial strain.

The ongoing conflict has created dire situations in various regions of Sudan, with some areas facing critical food shortages. Fighting between rival military generals has resulted in over 12 million people being displaced, making food availability a severe concern. Reports indicate that in parts of Darfur and Kordofan, starvation is becoming prevalent as supply routes are cut off.

In three displacement camps in North Darfur, famine has taken hold, and it is projected to extend to five additional areas. Local residents are resorting to consuming peanut shells and tree leaves to survive, as humanitarian aid remains difficult to access. The UN World Food Programme has had to pause its operations in some of the most affected regions due to increased violence.

Omar Manago, a humanitarian worker, described the severe conditions in North Darfur, highlighting a drastic shortage of food and water. UN Human Rights Chief Volker Turk warned that without an urgent increase in humanitarian assistance, hundreds of thousands could perish. There is an outbreak of chaos, with significant looting wiping out the few available markets, leading to diminished food stocks.

In Khartoum, as the fighting intensifies, volunteers are striving to distribute limited aid but find that the needs vastly surpass the available resources. The cherished Ramadan tradition of sharing iftar meals has deteriorated, with Sabrine Zerouk noting a sharp decline in communal support. Mohamed Moussa, a doctor, shared, “What I miss the most is breaking fast with family and friends,” reflecting the deep loss felt by many.

The ongoing conflict in Sudan has overshadowed the spirit of Ramadan, with rampant inflation and food shortages affecting the ability of individuals to observe this important holiday. The humanitarian crisis unfolds as increasing violence hampers access to essential supplies, leading to deteriorating conditions for millions. Without immediate intervention, the situation is likely to worsen, putting countless lives at risk. This grim landscape starkly contrasts the traditional practices of generosity and community that characterize Ramadan, leaving many communities to mourn lost customs and connections. The international community must act urgently to provide relief and support to those suffering in these catastrophic conditions.

Original Source: www.arabnews.com