In Sudan, Ramadan is overshadowed by rampant inflation and food shortages due to war. Prices of essential goods have skyrocketed, making it difficult for families to afford them. Many regions, particularly in Darfur, are experiencing severe food insecurity and famine, prompting urgent calls for aid amid rising violence and humanitarian challenges.
In Sudan’s eastern coast, residents are facing economic hardship as they prepare for Ramadan amid soaring prices due to ongoing conflict. Despite being safer than other regions, many families in Port Sudan struggle to purchase basic holiday food items. For instance, a kilogram of sugar is priced at 2,400 Sudanese pounds (approx. $1), while veal and mutton cost 24,000 and 28,000 pounds, respectively, leaving residents alarmed by the inflation.
The average monthly salary in Sudan is about $60, but many public workers have not received pay during the war. The Sudanese pound has deteriorated dramatically, changing from 600 pounds per dollar to 2,400 pounds on the parallel market, contributing to an inflation rate of 145% as of January. In some regions, residents are worried not just about high prices, but about the availability of food altogether due to the conflict.
The fighting, which began in April 2023, has caused the deaths of tens of thousands and displaced over 12 million people, worsening food insecurity across the region. In western Darfur and southern Kordofan, key supply routes have been disrupted, leading to instances of starvation. Famine conditions are reported in three camps in North Darfur, with indications they could extend further.
In desperate measures, some people in Darfur have resorted to consuming peanut shells and tree leaves to survive. Humanitarian access has become increasingly difficult, with the UN’s World Food Programme halting operations in famine-hit areas due to violence. “There is a severe shortage of drinking water and food. Many families have not eaten a proper meal in months,” explained a humanitarian worker in North Darfur.
The UN Human Rights chief has warned about the dire state in Sudan, emphasizing the urgent need for aid to prevent potential mass casualties. Without an increase in assistance, the risk of atrocity crimes and deaths from famine looms large, as stressed by Volker Turk at the Human Rights Council. Market availability has declined drastically, with markets in places like North Darfur either destroyed or looted.
In Khartoum, aid distributions continue but cannot meet the overwhelming demand. Volunteers who used to provide meals during Ramadan’s iftar are now scarce, reflecting a dramatic shift in community support. Residents lament the loss of Ramadan traditions, such as sharing iftar meals and celebrating together, with many expressing a deep sense of loss amidst the chaos, like a doctor who misses family gatherings and festive decorations.
The ongoing war in Sudan has severely impacted the ability to celebrate Ramadan, as economic strain and food shortages plague the population. While some areas still see residents attempting to maintain traditions, widespread famine and inflation pose overwhelming barriers. Urgent humanitarian intervention is necessary to address the impending crises as millions face hunger and displacement.
Original Source: www.arabnews.jp
