Sudan’s Ramadan Marred by Conflict and Economic Strain. Omdurman, Sudan — 2026-02-17 Lead Paragraph: As Ramadan approaches, the bustling markets of Omdurman are a stark contrast to the economic hardship and conflict gripping Sudan. Despite the festive atmosphere, the spirit of the Muslim holy month is overshadowed by the brutal realities of war and soaring prices.
The conflict in Sudan, which erupted in April 2023, has led to a severe humanitarian crisis.
According to the United Nations, over 14 million people have been internally displaced within the country, and tens of thousands have been killed. More than half the population, around 21 million people, are facing acute hunger.
The economic impact of the war has been devastating. Prices for basic commodities have reached record highs, leaving many unable to afford the communal iftar tables that define Ramadan in the predominantly Muslim nation. “Prices are too high during peak seasons, “said Saleh Mubarak, a Sudanese displaced from Khartoum. “.
It is crowded here, and traders take advantage of special occasions to raise prices.”Despite the challenges, some traders are cautiously optimistic. “I came to the market and opened my shop three or four months after the end of the war, “said Othman Youssef, a merchant from Khartoum. “.
There is high demand from customers, and prices are reasonable, neither high nor low, rather moderate.”
However, the situation remains fragile.
The war has significantly impacted traditional Ramadan customs, with many unable to engage in customary festivities due to economic hardship.
The UN envoy Ramtane Lamamra has emphasized the need for a political solution that respects national sovereignty and the will of the Sudanese people.
As families gather to break their fast, millions more will spend the holy month in tents, struggling to find their next meal.
The situation in Sudan remains dire, but hopes for a peaceful Ramadan and a return to normalcy persist.
Source: Sudan war: Any peace deal must respect national sovereignty, UN envoy says — news. Un.
*Additional reporting by ImNews | Sources consulted: 4*
