Sudanese Ramadan celebrations are overshadowed by ongoing war and economic collapse. Prices for basic goods have surged, and traditional festivities are absent due to security concerns. Reports indicate that over 30 million people are in need of aid, with major sectors of the economy having collapsed. Agricultural disruptions further exacerbate the challenges, leading to widespread food insecurity.
The onset of the holy month of Ramadan in Sudan has been overshadowed by ongoing conflict and economic turmoil. Mubarak Abdul-Salam, a displaced shop owner in Um Dawanban, has attempted to decorate his store in celebration, yet the war’s impact is evident, with destruction surrounding his new home. He emphasizes that, “Even though sadness weighs heavily on us, we try to bring some joy and remind people of the spiritual significance of Ramadan.”
The economic crisis is profound, with essential items experiencing drastic price surges. Abdul-Salam notes that the cost of a sack of millet has jumped to 200,000 Sudanese pounds from 40,000, while maize has increased from 30,000 to 150,000 pounds. The depreciation of the Sudanese pound exacerbates these challenges, with one U.S. dollar now trading at 2,500 pounds on the black market, a significant decline from the 580 pounds prior to the conflict.
In Port Sudan, the new commercial center, market activity has significantly decreased, with traditional Ramadan festivities virtually absent. Khalid Hassan, a local, remarks on the changed atmosphere: “The atmosphere of Ramadan here is completely different from what we were used to in Khartoum.” The loss of cultural customs, such as drumming for pre-dawn meals and festive decorations, reflects the broader social upheaval caused by war. Faiza Al-Nour, now living in a shelter, expresses her sorrow regarding the economic situation that has limited preparations for Ramadan, stating, “I feel deeply saddened by our economic situation, which has prevented us from preparing for Ramadan as we once did.”
According to the Humanitarian Aid Commission, approximately 28.9 million individuals in Sudan require humanitarian assistance, a number that has only risen since the war’s onset. The Ministry of Finance has reported a devastating economic state, where exports have ceased, key sectors have collapsed, and government revenues have plummeted by 80 percent.
Commodity transportation remains severely affected; agricultural producers are hindered in their ability to supply markets, leading to increased food insecurity. Abdul-Qadir Abdoun of the Northern Sudan Farmers’ Union highlights the logistical challenges faced by farmers, impacted by high costs and security issues, stating, “There are increasing difficulties due to the war, particularly the separation of production areas from major markets because of insecurity, road closures and high transportation costs.”
In summary, the celebration of Ramadan in Sudan is dramatically altered due to the ongoing conflict and deepening economic crisis. Individuals like Mubarak Abdul-Salam strive to maintain some festive spirit despite the pervasive shadows of war. With skyrocketing prices and humanitarian needs rising to over 30 million, the socio-economic landscape remains bleak, further exacerbated by disrupted supply chains and agricultural losses. The essence of Ramadan, filled with traditions and community gatherings, is considerably diminished, reflecting the broader implications of the conflict on daily life. The challenges faced within Sudan highlight the urgent needs for humanitarian assistance and economic recovery to restore hope and normalcy during this significant month.
Original Source: english.news.cn
