Story perspectives

Sudan's Conflict: Armed Forces Profit While Millions Starve

2/19/2026

Center

Sudanese Forces Exploit Agriculture

The Sudanese Armed Forces and the Rapid Support Forces exploit agricultural value chains for profit amid Sudan's conflict.
A recent study finds they dominate low-complexity sectors like livestock trade despite Saudi Arabia's import bans.
Deforestation has accelerated, with 60% of Khartoum's green cover lost and seasonal flooding risk rising.
More than 40,000 people have died, and 21 million face food insecurity.
Aid access remains limited, hindering relief amid escalating violence.

Right

UK Supports Sudan Restoration

The Sudanese civil war has damaged cultural heritage, including the Old Republican Palace, as clashes between the Rapid Support Forces and the Sudanese Armed Forces.
Officials seek British support to restore the palace, highlighting its significance in Sudan's history.
The United Kingdom has imposed sanctions on individuals linked to war atrocities and Foreign Secretary Yvette Cooper condemns violence against women and girls, calling for action to restore stability in Sudan.

Left

Mustafa Mines Gold

The Sudanese civil war has driven many, including Mustafa Omar, to mine gold for survival.
Gold mining is a lifeline for families amid a crisis displacing over 12 million people.
The Sudanese government seeks to regulate the gold sector and pursue exports to Saudi Arabia and Russia.
Smuggling remains a significant issue in the gold trade.
Former Prime Minister Abdalla Hamdok calls for a civilian-led transition to end the conflict.

History

Historical Context

Since gaining independence in 1956, Sudan has faced chronic instability, marked by two civil wars and the Darfur genocide. The current civil war, which erupted on April 15, 2023, between the Sudanese Armed Forces and the Rapid Support Forces, has resulted in over 40,000 deaths and displaced 12 million people, exacerbating a severe humanitarian crisis affecting 25 million individuals.

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Sudanese Forces Exploit Agriculture

The Sudanese Armed Forces and the Rapid Support Forces exploit agricultural value chains for profit amid Sudan's conflict.
A recent study finds they dominate low-complexity sectors like livestock trade despite Saudi Arabia's import bans.
Deforestation has accelerated, with 60% of Khartoum's green cover lost and seasonal flooding risk rising.
More than 40,000 people have died, and 21 million face food insecurity.
Aid access remains limited, hindering relief amid escalating violence.

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