By Africa Risk Control (ARC) – Sudan, Africa’s third-largest country, is currently experiencing severe political instability due to ongoing conflict between the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) and the Rapid Support Forces (RSF), which began in April 2023.
The violence has triggered a major humanitarian crisis, displacing over 14 million people and forcing more than four million to flee abroad. Fatalities have surpassed 150,000, and access to essential services is extremely limited.
The economic impact is equally stark. Sudan’s GDP has contracted sharply to around $48 billion, while inflation has surged to 180–200% due to currency depreciation and disrupted trade. Gold, Sudan’s main export, has been affected by a de facto embargo by the UAE, and other sectors like agriculture, infrastructure, and healthcare are severely strained. Despite these challenges, Sudan retains significant economic potential, particularly in gold mining, agriculture, livestock, energy, and post-conflict reconstruction.
Gold and minerals: Despite export restrictions, small-to-medium mining operations present investment opportunities, particularly for those looking to diversify markets beyond traditional channels.
Agriculture and livestock: Fertile regions like Al Jazirah still offer potential for irrigation, post-harvest storage, and export-focused crops like gum arabic and sesame. Humanitarian-aligned projects may attract donor co-financing.
Infrastructure and energy: Damaged roads, power grids, and hospitals create reconstruction opportunities, including solar and renewable energy projects.
Healthcare and humanitarian services: Investments addressing urgent health crises, such as cholera outbreaks, can have social impact while aligning with aid programs.
However, investors must navigate high political, security, and regulatory risks. Conflict zones shift rapidly, and legal and operational frameworks are fragmented. Currency volatility and supply chain disruptions further complicate investments.
This is where ARC services provide a critical advantage. ARC offers political and security intelligence, sectoral due diligence, crisis management, and humanitarian-aligned investment advisory to help investors navigate Sudan’s complex environment safely and strategically.
Sudan’s investment landscape is high-risk, but with careful planning, strategic intelligence, and the right support, investors can identify viable opportunities while contributing to the country’s recovery.
For a full in-depth analysis of Sudan’s sectors, opportunities, and risk mitigation strategies, investors can access ARC’s comprehensive report and guidance.