By ZBC Reporter
The cost of commodities and services in Sudan is rising due to supply and transportation challenges amid heavy sporadic fighting between the Sudanese Armed Forces and the Paramilitary Rapid Support Forces.
Clashes that broke out on the 15th of April disrupted markets, causing massive supply chain challenges and unprecedented price hikes.
On Monday, the two sides agreed to extend a cease-fire agreement that was originally signed on the 20th of May for an additional five days.
Although sporadic fighting continued during the ceasefire, the United Nations World Food Programme used the opportunity to deliver supplies, the first round of which arrived on the 27th of May.
Looting has become the order of the day in the capital city of Khartoum, a business hub for Sudan’s key industries and services that sit close to areas of intense fighting.
More than 100 factories and other establishments have reported damage or theft.
Meanwhile, trade routes into Khartoum have been blocked and operations at the country’s main port suspended, leaving civilians reeling under severe price hikes of more than 60 percent for basic commodities like fuel.
Sudan is a key exporter of commodities such as sesame, peanuts, gold and livestock.
However, the economy has been impacted by years of sanctions and international isolation, alongside mismanagement and corruption, leading to skyrocketing inflation and continued currency devaluations.
