Sudan War Losses: Government Silence and Lack of Figures
By: Ruqayya Al-Zaki
From time to time, unofficial figures surface regarding the wars toll on Sudan and the destruction it has caused. In a brief interview with the Minister of Finance during an official event, Dr. Jibril Ibrahim, when asked directly about the total war losses, avoided giving concrete numbers. Instead, he remarked:
"The war that erupted in April has devastated Sudan, destroying all industries in the capital, all companies, and all government services there. Additionally, it has wreaked havoc on industry, trade, and services in other states. Over ten million people have been displaced or forced to flee their homes, leaving nothing intact."
However, the minister did not provide any specific figures.
Absence of Accurate Data
So far, no entity has managed to break the governments silence on the actual numbers. All previously released estimates remain unverified, such as the earlier figure of 200 billion in losses. More recent projections have raised alarms, especially given Sudans significant economic challenges, including currency devaluation and longstanding structural issues.
Observers worry that the lack of accurate information, coupled with what they perceive as deliberate silence, prevents the international community from understanding the extent of the damage and making informed decisions. Transparency, they argue, is crucial, as international organizations and donors rely on precise figures to respond effectively.
Private Sector Speaks Out
While the government has yet to release reliable data, the private sector has been more forthcoming. Numerous business owners and private investors lament the massive financial and asset losses they have suffered. Large economic institutions have collapsed, infrastructure has been obliterated, and over 90% of factories are now deemed unfit for production. The private sectors reported losses far exceed the governments vague statements.
In response to the incomplete answer from the Minister of Finance, the question was posed to Muawiya Al-Barir, a representative of the Union of Industrial Chambers. Al-Barir provided some figures:
"The industrial sector has suffered enormous losses, with over 90% of factories in Khartoum State affected. More than 1.8 million workers and employees in this sector have been displaced. The total losses amount to approximately 50 million for the industrial sector alone."
He emphasized their commitment to reviving the industrial sector and reintegrating unemployed workers, including professionals, youth, and other laborers.
Human and Infrastructure Damage
The damage to the industrial sector is not limited to infrastructure. The human cost is equally devastating. Nearly 200,000 employees and workers are now displaced, many of whom are refugees or internally displaced persons (IDPs).
International Concern
United Nations agencies have expressed concern over Sudans losses due to the war. The United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) previously projected a 12% contraction in the Sudanese economy, citing halted production, the destruction of human capital, and diminished state capacity.
A Scene of Devastation
The visible devastation tells a story the government has yet to acknowledge. Abandoned factories, vandalized equipment and machinery, and markets devoid of local products are stark reminders of the destruction. The war has left Sudan grappling with an unprecedented humanitarian crisis marked by poverty, displacement, and despair.
