Sudan’s Rich Oil, Gold, and Agricultural Resources: Understanding Current Control and Ownership Dynamics

As Sudan enters the third year of its civil war, a profound humanitarian crisis has emerged, driving over 9.5 million people from their homes and pushing millions to the brink of starvation. Despite Sudan’s rich natural resources—ranging from oil and gold to fertile agricultural land—the ongoing conflict significantly hinders the nation’s potential to provide for its citizens. By examining the intricate landscape of resource control amidst this humanitarian crisis, we can better understand the multifaceted challenges facing Sudan’s future recovery and development.

Sudan’s civil war, now in its third year, has pitted the army against the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) in a devastating struggle for power. The conflict has unleashed the world’s largest displacement crisis, with more than 9.5 million people forced from their homes across Sudan’s 18 states, leading to dire humanitarian consequences for millions facing starvation.

Despite its vast natural resources, including oil, gold, and fertile agricultural land capable of supporting its population, the ongoing fighting complicates efforts to utilize these assets effectively. This interaction of conflict and resources lays the groundwork for an analysis of Sudan’s most significant exports and who controls them.

In terms of territorial control, the army dominates much of the north and east of Sudan, including the capital, Khartoum, and key cities along the Nile and at the strategic Port Sudan on the Red Sea. Conversely, the RSF has solidified its grip on the western region of Darfur, having captured el-Fasher, the capital of North Darfur state, after besieging it for nearly 18 months.

Sudan’s exports, valued at .09 billion in 2023, are primarily derived from three sectors: oil, gold, and agricultural products. The export market was led by crude oil valued at .13 billion and gold at .03 billion. Sudan stands as the world’s largest exporter of sesame seeds and gum arabic, a substance widely used in food, beverage, pharmaceutical, and cosmetic industries.

The country’s geography is largely defined by the Nile River, which floods annually to irrigate agricultural lands. With rich grazing lands that support herding and animal husbandry, control of these resources is perceived to be divided between the army and the RSF. The geographic dynamics also facilitate a system supporting the agricultural needs of the population that could be leveraged for national growth.

Petroleum serves as Sudan’s primary revenue source. Although production peaked in the early 2010s, the division of resources due to South Sudan’s secession dented its output, which has now drastically declined to approximately 70,000 barrels per day by 2023. Despite this, oil continues to represent a significant portion of export revenues, indicating an imbalance in resource management amid the civil conflict.

In gold production, Sudan remains one of Africa’s leading producers, with deposits dispersed across the northeast, central, and southern regions, indicating that the resource potential of the nation is yet to be fully realized. With much of the gold extracted through artisanal means, this sector employs tens of thousands of people yet operates largely under the radar of government regulations. Recent reports indicate a surge in gold production amid the crisis, showcasing the capacity for economic resilience amid hardship.

Looking at Sudan’s trading partners, the UAE emerged as the top partner in 2023, accounting for 21% of Sudan’s total exports, while China, Saudi Arabia, and others followed closely. This indicates a market of interdependence that, if leveraged properly, could facilitate a broader economic recovery post-conflict.

In conclusion, Sudan presents a complex image of potential interwoven with conflict. As the country navigates the tumultuous waters of war and resource distribution, understanding who controls what will be crucial for any future stability or growth efforts. Only through focused dialogue and strategic resource management can Sudan hope to reclaim its position on the path toward recovery and prosperity.

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