As the holy month of Ramadan begins in Sudan on 17 February 2026, millions of Muslims across the country are preparing to observe a period of prayer, fasting and reflection under extraordinarily difficult circumstances. Years of conflict, economic instability and food insecurity have compounded daily life for ordinary citizens, presenting unique challenges for communities striving to balance spiritual devotion with survival.
This year’s Ramadan arrives against a backdrop of ongoing civil strife, widespread displacement, soaring prices and disruptions to basic services. The convergence of religious observance with acute hardship has intensified public concern, charitable activities and calls for humanitarian support.
Conflict and daily life in crisis
Sudan’s internal conflicts especially in regions such as Darfur, Khartoum State and Kordofan continue to shape the daily experiences of millions of residents. Clashes between rival forces have displaced families, damaged infrastructure, and disrupted supply chains. Many communities face erratic access to clean water, electricity and markets.
For families in urban centres like Khartoum and Omdurman, daily life has become a delicate balance between securing food and fulfilling spiritual obligations. Long queues at bakeries and food distribution points have become common during the early hours before dawn, as households prepare for suhoor the pre-fasting meal that precedes sunrise
Economic hardship deepens strain
Sudan’s economy has been under severe strain for years, with inflation, currency devaluation and supply shortages affecting everything from food prices to fuel availability. The cost of staple items including flour, sugar, rice and cooking oil has risen sharply, placing additional pressure on families already struggling to meet basic needs.
Many Sudanese say that the convergence of Ramadan with peak economic challenges has altered the nature of the observance. Instead of festive gatherings and shared meals, some families are planning simple, modest suhoor and iftar (the sunset meal that breaks the fast) due to limited resources.
A local market vendor noted that customers are increasingly buying smaller quantities of goods, with many prioritising essentials over traditional Ramadan treats. “People want to honour the month spiritually, but economically it is very hard,” she said. We are all trying to make ends meet.
Spirit of faith and community support
Despite the hardships, the spirit of Ramadan one of charity, empathy and communal support remains deeply rooted in Sudanese society. Mosques across the country are organising charitable distributions, free iftar meals and community support programmes aimed at assisting the most vulnerable. Religious leaders have called for compassion and generosity, emphasising the importance of solidarity during times of adversity. Many zakat (obligatory almsgiving) and voluntary charitable efforts are being coordinated to ensure that households in need receive essential food items and support throughout the fasting month.
One imam in Khartoum said that while material circumstances are difficult, the community’s shared faith provides strength and resilience: “Ramadan teaches patience, humility and compassion. In these testing times, our faith binds us together and reminds us that we are never alone.
Displacement and vulnerable populations
Internally displaced persons (IDPs) and refugee communities face some of the harshest conditions during this Ramadan. Makeshift camps and shelters, often lacking adequate sanitation and cooking facilities, struggle to meet basic needs. Humanitarian organisations report that the demand for food assistance, clean water, medical care and safe shelter has surged in recent months.
Aid workers say that Ramadan with its emphasis on fasting and shared meals highlights the stark disparities faced by people uprooted from their homes. In some displacement settlements, volunteers and international partners are coordinating distribution of emergency food baskets and sanitary supplies to help families observe the holy month with dignity
Youth and social dynamics
For many young Sudanese, Ramadan this year represents a moment of introspection and community connection but also of frustration and concern for the future. Youth unemployment and economic uncertainty continue to be pressing issues, while conflict and displacement have disrupted education and employment prospects for many.
Despite these challenges, young volunteers are playing an active role in community support efforts, organising food drives, clean-up activities and outreach to elderly residents. Social media hashtags related to Ramadan outreach and kindness have gained traction, amplifying stories of generosity and community resilience
Humanitarian and government responses
Both international agencies and local authorities have appealed for increased support to address the humanitarian crisis ahead of and during Ramadan. Aid organisations are expanding food distribution points, mobile clinics, and water provision stations in high-need areas.
Government ministries responsible for social welfare and religious affairs have also pledged to monitor conditions and coordinate resource distribution, recognising the need to support families during this spiritually significant period. Officials emphasise that ensuring the safety, wellbeing and dignity of citizens during Ramadan is a priority, even as ongoing conflict and economic pressures complicate relief efforts
Faith amid hardship
As the month of fasting unfolds, Sudanese families across the nation are approaching Ramadan with a mixture of faith, resolve and cautious hope. Many see the period as an opportunity for spiritual renewal and collective solidarity, even in the face of adversity.
For millions, each sunset and shared iftar meal no matter how modest will carry layers of meaning: devotion, resilience and the unyielding strength of community amid one of the most challenging chapters in Sudan’s recent history.
