As Ramadan begins in Sudan, war conditions lead to soaring prices and widespread famine. Basic foods are increasingly unaffordable, particularly in conflict-affected regions like Darfur. Residents struggle to continue beloved Ramadan traditions, with many turning to extreme measures for survival. The situation demands immediate humanitarian intervention to prevent further tragedies.
In Port Sudan, residents are preparing for Ramadan amid soaring prices due to war-induced inflation. Basic holiday goods have become unaffordable for many, with sugar priced at 2,400 Sudanese pounds ($1) per kilo and veal costing 24,000 pounds. Mahmoud Abd El Kader highlighted the struggle in affording these essential items, while Hassan Osman echoed the sentiment of financial burden due to high costs.
In regions deeply affected by the ongoing conflict, the situation is significantly worse, with famine, severe shortages, and displacement overshadowing the Ramadan spirit. Since the fighting began in April 2023, which has led to tens of thousands of fatalities and left over 12 million people displaced, access to food remains critical. Reports indicate that inflation has surged to 145%, leaving many unable to find basic necessities.
In troubled areas such as Darfur and Kordofan, food supply routes have been severed, leading to starvation among residents. A UN-backed assessment foresees famine spreading in North Darfur’s displacement camps. With many resorting to eating peanut shells and leaves for survival, humanitarian efforts are hampered by violence, making food distribution nearly impossible.
Omar Manago, a North Darfur humanitarian worker, reported critical shortages of food and clean water, with families going months without a proper meal. UN human rights officials express grave concern, forewarning that without immediate aid, mass deaths from famine are imminent. Many local markets have been destroyed amid conflict, further exacerbating the dire situation.
In the capital Khartoum, the community’s ability to maintain Ramadan traditions is severely impacted. Past practices of communal iftar meals and food sharing are no longer viable, as expressed by Omdurman resident Sabrine Zerouk, who laments the loss of volunteers distributing meals. Mohamed Moussa, a local doctor, also shared his sorrow over the diminished opportunity to gather with family and enjoy Ramadan’s decorations and festivities.
The ongoing conflict in Sudan severely affects the ability of residents to celebrate Ramadan, marked by soaring prices, food shortages, and disrupted traditions. With significant inflation and scarcity of essential goods, many face unimaginable hardship, evoking urgent calls for increased humanitarian support to avert widespread famine.
Original Source: www.arabnews.com
