Farmers in Sudan’s Northern State are busy with agricultural production work as the winter farming season approaches, despite the challenges posed by the ongoing conflict in the country. In the village of Tomnar, located in Dongola, farmers are preparing their land and planting crops, including eggplants, to sustain their livelihoods and contribute to the nation’s food production.
The impact of Sudan’s devastating war, which began in April 2023 between the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) and the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF), has deeply affected many sectors of society, with agriculture being one of the hardest hit. The conflict has caused widespread displacement, destruction of infrastructure, and a significant reduction in agricultural activities. Despite these adversities, farmers in Sudan’s Northern State continue to push forward with the winter farming season, which is vital for ensuring food security.
In Tomnar village, the sight of farmers tending to their farms with determination and resilience is evident. Some can be seen riding donkeys, a traditional means of transport for farmers in the region, while others are on foot, preparing their fields for planting. For these farmers, the winter season offers a window of opportunity to cultivate crops that will not only feed their families but also contribute to the local economy.
Many farmers in the region rely on traditional farming methods, where the use of animals such as donkeys helps with tasks like plowing and transporting goods. This method, though labor-intensive, remains the backbone of agricultural production in rural Sudan. In addition to eggplants, farmers also plant a variety of crops such as wheat, millet, and vegetables. These crops provide a necessary food source for the community and are crucial for local markets. However, the ongoing conflict complicates matters. With many farmers unable to access the necessary tools, fertilizers, and resources, their ability to cultivate the land efficiently has been hindered. Despite this, many still persist, demonstrating remarkable resilience and resourcefulness.
The challenges faced by Sudanese farmers are not limited to physical obstacles. The economic impacts of the war have also been felt across the agricultural sector. Rising costs of basic necessities, limited access to markets, and a lack of stable infrastructure make it difficult for farmers to earn a steady income from their produce. Additionally, the conflict has disrupted transportation networks, preventing the timely delivery of essential supplies to farmers and the movement of goods to markets. This has compounded the difficulties farmers face in their efforts to sustain agricultural production.
Despite these hardships, the agricultural community in Sudan remains resolute. In rural areas like Tomnar, farming is not just an economic activity but a way of life that has been passed down through generations. The farmers’ connection to the land runs deep, and they are determined to continue working the soil, planting seeds, and nurturing their crops in the hope of better times ahead. For many, farming represents a form of stability and survival amidst the turmoil of war. The winter season is particularly important, as it allows farmers to plant crops that will grow in the cooler months and provide a buffer against the harsh summer heat, which is difficult for crops to withstand.
As the war continues, international organizations and local authorities are working together to provide assistance to Sudanese farmers. Efforts to improve access to farming tools, seeds, and financial support are critical in helping farmers maintain their livelihoods. However, the road to recovery remains long, and the full restoration of Sudan’s agricultural sector will depend on the resolution of the ongoing conflict and the rebuilding of the country’s infrastructure.
In conclusion, the resilience of Sudanese farmers in the face of adversity is a testament to their dedication and determination. In places like Tomnar village, where farmers are busy preparing their land for the upcoming winter farming season, there is a sense of hope that despite the challenges posed by war, agriculture will continue to play a crucial role in the recovery of Sudan’s economy and food security. The work being done by these farmers is not only essential for their communities but also vital for the nation as a whole, as it strives to rebuild and recover from the devastating impacts of conflict.
