Sudan is going through a major energy crisis. The civil war which has pitted the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) against the Rapid Support Forces (FSR) since April 2023 has paralyzed the main oil fields and damaged strategic infrastructure, leading to the almost total cessation of production.
In December, the Heglig oil field, the largest in the country, was completely closed, and all staff evacuated in the face of escalating violence. Most other fields located in the central and western regions have also ceased operations. According to the Ministry of Finance, oil production has fallen by more than 50% since the start of the conflict.
"The conflict has seriously affected the Sudanese oil industry. Refineries, pipelines and storage facilities were damaged, and even Port Sudan was targeted by drone attacks, says economist Mohamed Alnair.
The Khartoum refinery, which once supplied almost 70% of the national fuel needs, remains closed. Deprived of this capacity, the country now depends on imports of diesel, gasoline and gas, themselves weakened by the attacks.
"We cannot refine our production locally and are entirely dependent on imports. And now, imported products, diesel, gasoline, gas, are also affected by attacks on depots. We are facing a shortage of refined products, which directly impacts the population", confirms Ayman Al-Goukh, energy expert.
Since 2024, the fuel shortage has gradually spread from conflict zones to safer regions, such as the Red Sea state. Many gas stations remain closed and those still open experience frequent interruptions, forcing residents to wait long hours. This situation also leads to long power outages, paralyzing daily life.
Even in Port Sudan, far from the main centers of combat, residents are suffering the effects of the crisis. The cost of living and transportation is increasing, while electricity is lacking for several hours a day.
"The electricity is cut off for six to eight hours every day. With temperatures reaching 50°C in summer, life becomes extremely difficult. We hope that peace will return quickly to Sudan so that life can return to normal", says Amin, a local resident.
