Ramadan in Sudan: From a Month of Blessings to a Season of Struggle

Ramadan in Sudan was once a time of vibrant streets, communal prayers, and shared iftar meals that brought neighbors and travelers together. However, for the second consecutive year, the holy month arrives amid severe humanitarian and security challenges. What was once a spiritual season has now become a daily struggle for survival as war continues to grip the country.

From Bustling Streets to Empty Neighborhoods

Before the war, Sudanese cities—especially the capital, Khartoum—came alive in preparation for Ramadan, with street cleanups, public lighting repairs, and widespread communal iftars. Today, these traditions have disappeared, particularly in Khartoum, where an estimated 80% of its 8 million residents have fled since the fighting began.

Mohamed Sherif, one of the few who remained in his home in the Al-Kalakla district in southern Khartoum, describes a starkly different Ramadan experience. “Before the war, about 50 families lived on our street, gathering around shared iftar tables. Now, barely three or four families remain. Everyone has fled—only those with no other choice, like me, have stayed,” he says.

A Dangerous Fast: Security Concerns Overpower Tradition

Communal iftars are no longer an option. Sherif explains that “it is simply too dangerous to gather outdoors. Mortar shells can strike at any moment, and the streets are filled with the rubble of destroyed homes. There are no neighbors left to share food with, and even the few who remain prefer to stay hidden inside their houses.”

Empty Markets and Soaring Prices

Unlike previous years, Sudanese markets are not bustling in preparation for Ramadan. With over 60% of the population having lost their primary sources of income and the prices of essential goods skyrocketing by 200% to 400%, even affording basic necessities has become a major challenge.

Ali Yousif, a resident of Al-Thawrat district, ventured out cautiously to buy Ramadan supplies, braving ongoing shelling and lawlessness. However, he was shocked upon reaching the market. “The budget I had prepared is barely enough to cover half of what I need. We used to have abundant iftar tables, but now, we will have to make do with the bare minimum,” he says with a heavy heart.

Cash Crisis Worsens Hardships

Adding to the crisis, Sudan’s recent currency change has severely limited daily cash withdrawals, while electronic payment systems remain unreliable. As a result, many merchants have started charging an extra 15% for transactions made through digital payments, deepening the financial strain on citizens.

Ramadan Amid War: Hope for Peace

Despite the hardships, many Sudanese still hold on to hope that peace will return, allowing Ramadan to once again be a time of unity and generosity—rather than a season of hardship and survival.