The growing conflict among military factions in Sudan is endangering this year’s staple crop production. According to farmers from various states, the situation could plunge the African nation further into hunger and poverty. Evidence shows delays in planting key crops like sorghum and millet. This is due, in part, to a lack of credit from banks and high costs of essential inputs including fertilizers, seeds, and fuel.

Some farmers expressed their concerns about possibly being unable to complete planting before the anticipated heavy rains. These rains mark the traditional planting window and any delay could worsen the incoming hunger crisis. The United Nations estimated that the number of Sudanese people suffering from food shortages could rise from 16.2 million to 19.1 million by August due to the conflict, which initiated in April. Shortages of staple crops are expected as warehouses in key cities like Khartoum have been looted. Additionally, it could impair the country’s ability to earn foreign currency needed to import basic commodities, hitting both the economy and livelihoods hard.

A vast majority (around 65%) of Sudan’s population of 49 million is engaged in the agricultural sector according to the UN Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO). With indications that a famine may be looming, it points to a potentially catastrophic impact on the already struggling nation’s economy and food supplies.

Farmers in the country had been facing financial hardships for several years, and today’s economic crisis is worsening these issues. Repaying existing loans to secure new funding has become increasingly challenging. Farmers who have managed to gather financing expressed concerns over the sharp increases in input prices, including that of seeds, fertilizers, pesticides, and fuel.

The ongoing conflict continues to disrupt supply chains centered on Khartoum. This has led to widespread disruption and witnessed instances of theft in warehouses storing significant farming resources such as fertilizers, seeds, and pesticides.

While some agricultural areas remain relatively untouched by direct violence, the effects of the conflict are felt strongly. Many farmers feel it might be too late to plant crops this year due to lack of financing and broken promises from banks. Unfortunately, the situation in Sudan is already grim and is projected to worsen in the next six months, affecting the planting and harvest season.

Plots reserved for export crops, as well as essential crops such as sorghum and millet, are also reporting delays. The economy and livelihoods of Sudanese people stand a substantial risk. Sudan’s war and subsequent financial collapse have affected the nation’s capacity to import crucial commodities and food items.

Limited humanitarian access due to fighting, looting, and bureaucratic restrictions have added to the crisis. Both warring sides accuse the other of blocking aid delivery, further exacerbating the situation. Even in states with a higher influx of displaced people, such as Gezira State, food shortages are being reported.

In conclusion, the escalating conflict in Sudan is severely threatening agricultural productivity, food supplies, and economically stabilizing the country. Resultant hunger crisis may be worse than initially anticipated by the UN and aid workers, pointing at a stark future for the African nation.

The post Heightening Conflict in Sudan Threatens Crop Production and Deepens Hunger Crisis appeared first on TS2 SPACE.