Gedaref, Sudan – With the holy month of Ramadan set to begin next week, Muslims across Sudan are preparing despite the country’s ongoing civil war. In the eastern city of Gedaref, a major agricultural and commercial hub, residents are heading to markets, but many are shocked by soaring meat prices.
Rising Costs in the Market
Local resident Mohamed Ibrahim Ahmed explained the seasonal surge:
“In Ramadan specifically, livestock’s prices go up because demand is higher than supply and due to people fasting during the day. The prices in the market are too high, too expensive. An ewe costs 650 to 700 thousand Sudanese pounds [$1080 to $1163].”
Despite the war, Gedaref’s markets remain active, with traders continuing to export livestock.
Livestock Trade Still Thriving
Livestock farm owner Mohamed Gomaa highlighted the scale of operations in Shawak:
“We have two markets on Saturdays and Tuesdays. We export to Egypt around 250 to 300 camels on Saturdays and from 150 to 200 camels on Tuesdays. The market is big and turnover is high.”
War and Humanitarian Challenges
Sudan’s civil war, now in its third year, has killed tens of thousands and displaced millions. The conflict has fueled hunger and disease across the country, though traders in Gedaref say conditions are showing signs of improvement.
Resident Mohamed Othman noted:
“Prices are still reasonable till now, no high increases. And even if it happens, it is not that high. We expect the situation to improve by Ramadan. We don’t know what will happen, but the situation in the country is better now.”
International Support
Last week, the United Nations launched a new Sudan Humanitarian Fund, backed by $700 million in contributions from the United Arab Emirates and the United States. The UN’s humanitarian chief set February 17, the expected start of Ramadan, as a deadline to show visible progress on relief efforts.
Conclusion
As Sudanese families prepare for Ramadan, Gedaref’s bustling markets reflect both resilience and hardship. While livestock trade continues to thrive, soaring prices and the backdrop of war underscore the challenges facing communities across the country.
