Sudan Facts

by countryaah · Published June 3, 2019 · Updated December 12, 2024

Sudan, state of northeastern Africa; 1.9 million km², 41.8 million residents (2019).Sudan borders north to Egypt, has northeast coast to the Red Sea and borders east to Eritrea and Ethiopia, south to South Sudan, southwest to Central African Republic, west to Chad and northwest to Libya.

The capital is Khartoum (2.7 million residents, 2012).

Country facts

Jumhūriyyat as-Sūdān / Republic of Sudan
Country abbreviation: SD
Area: 1.9 million km²
Population (2019): 41.8 million residents
Capital: Khartoum
Main languages: Arabic
State: Republic
Head of State: Abdel Fattah al-Burhan (Transitional Council leader)
Head of Government: Abdalla Hamdok
Per capita GDP (2018): US $ 977
GNI per capita (2018): US $ 1,560
Currency unit: Sudanese pound
Currency code: SDG
Country number (telephony): 249
Internet domain name: sd
Time difference compared to Sweden: +2
National Day: January 1 (Independence Day, 1956)

Nature

Land use: forest (12%), agricultural land (7%), other (81%)
Highest mountain: Jebbel Marra (3,042 m asl)

Population

Population density (2019): 22 residents per km²
Natural population growth (2019): 2.6%; birth number 33 ‰, death number 7 ‰
Age structure (2019): 0-14 years (41%), 15-64 (55%), 65- (4%)
Life expectancy (2019): men 63 years, women 67 years
Infant mortality (2019): 43 per 1,000 live births
Population forecast 2050: 81 million residents
HDI (2017): 0.502 (place 167 of 189)
Urbanization rate (2019): 36%
Most populous city (2012): Omdurman (2.8 million residents), Khartoum (2.7 million)

Business

Industry’s contribution to GDP (2017): agriculture (40%), industry (3%), service (57%)
Exports (2017): US $ 4,100 million
Main export products: gold, oil, agricultural products
Main exporting countries: United Arab Emirates, Egypt, Saudi Arabia
Imports (2017): US $ 8,220 million
Main import products: food, industrial goods, pharmaceuticals
Main Importing Countries: United Arab Emirates, Egypt, India
Railway network (2014): 7,200 km

Geography of Sudan

Location and Size

Sudan is located in northeastern Africa, bordered by Egypt to the north, the Red Sea to the east, Eritrea and Ethiopia to the southeast, South Sudan to the south, the Central African Republic to the southwest, Chad to the west, and Libya to the northwest. The country spans an area of approximately 1.86 million square kilometers (718,723 square miles), making it the third-largest country in Africa and one of the largest in the world. Sudan’s vast land area is home to diverse landscapes, ranging from deserts to fertile plains, mountains, and rivers.

Topography

Sudan’s topography is characterized by a combination of arid deserts, savannas, and the fertile Nile River Valley. The northern part of the country is dominated by the Sahara Desert, which covers a large portion of Sudan’s territory. This desert region is sparsely populated due to the harsh conditions and lack of water. The central and southern parts of Sudan feature more fertile lands, especially along the Nile River. The Blue Nile and White Nile converge in Sudan to form the Nile River, one of the most important geographical features of the country. In the eastern and western regions, the terrain includes mountainous areas, such as the Red Sea Hills and the Darfur Mountains.

Rivers and Lakes

The Nile River, flowing through Sudan from south to north, is the most significant waterway in the country. The White Nile, which originates from Lake Victoria in Uganda, and the Blue Nile, originating from Ethiopia, merge at Khartoum, the capital of Sudan, to form the Nile. This river is the lifeblood of Sudan, providing water for agriculture, transportation, and daily life. Sudan is also home to several smaller rivers, such as the Atbara River, which flows into the Nile. While Sudan has a few lakes, including Lake Nubia and the Sudd wetlands, they are relatively smaller compared to other African nations.

Climate

Sudan’s climate is largely characterized by extreme heat and aridity, particularly in the northern desert regions. The country experiences a hot desert climate, with temperatures often exceeding 40°C (104°F) during the summer months in many areas. In contrast, the central and southern parts of the country have a tropical savanna climate, with distinct wet and dry seasons. The rainy season, which lasts from May to October, brings much-needed precipitation to agricultural regions, especially along the Nile. However, due to the predominance of desert and semi-arid conditions, Sudan faces challenges related to water scarcity and food security in many parts of the country.

Population of Sudan

Demographics

As of 2024, Sudan’s population is estimated to be over 45 million people. The country has a young population, with a large proportion under the age of 30. Sudan’s population is diverse in terms of ethnicity, language, and religion. The majority of the population resides in urban areas, particularly in Khartoum, which is the capital and the largest city. Despite the country’s substantial rural areas, the urbanization rate in Sudan has increased steadily in recent decades, mainly due to internal migration and the search for better opportunities in cities.

Ethnic Groups

Sudan is home to a wide variety of ethnic groups, reflecting the complex history and geographic expanse of the country. The largest ethnic group is the Arabs, who make up the majority of the population in the northern and central regions. Other significant ethnic groups include the Nubians in the north, the Beja in the eastern regions, the Fur, Masalit, and Zaghawa in Darfur, and the Nuba in the southern regions. The country’s southern region, particularly in South Sudan, has a more pronounced presence of ethnic groups such as the Dinka, Nuer, and Shilluk. Sudan’s ethnic diversity is one of the main factors influencing its complex social and political dynamics.

Religion

Islam is the predominant religion in Sudan, with nearly 97% of the population identifying as Muslim, predominantly Sunni. Islam plays a central role in Sudanese society, and the country follows Sharia law to some extent, especially in the northern and central regions. Christianity is practiced by a small minority, primarily in the southern and western parts of Sudan, and is predominantly of the Coptic Orthodox, Roman Catholic, and Protestant denominations. Indigenous African religions, particularly animism, are also practiced by smaller communities, mostly in the southern and western regions of the country. The country’s religious diversity and history have contributed to tensions, particularly with the advent of the civil war in the southern regions that led to the eventual independence of South Sudan in 2011.

Language

Arabic is the official language of Sudan, spoken by the vast majority of the population. Sudanese Arabic, a variety of Arabic with influences from local languages and dialects, is widely used in daily communication. In addition to Arabic, several indigenous languages are spoken across the country. These include Nubian languages in the north, Beja in the east, and languages such as Fur, Nuba, and Zaghawa in the west. English is also widely used, especially in government, education, and commerce, due to Sudan’s historical connections with the British during the colonial period.

Economy of Sudan

Economic Overview

Sudan has a mixed economy with significant contributions from agriculture, oil, and mining. However, the country’s economy has faced severe challenges, particularly due to the loss of oil revenue after the secession of South Sudan in 2011, which led to a decline in oil production. Sudan has relied on its agricultural sector for economic survival, and recent efforts have been made to diversify the economy by investing in mining, renewable energy, and other sectors. Despite these challenges, Sudan’s location in northeastern Africa and its access to the Red Sea make it a key player in regional trade.

Agriculture

Agriculture has historically been the backbone of Sudan’s economy, providing employment for over 80% of the population. The fertile Nile Valley supports the cultivation of a wide range of crops, including wheat, sorghum, millet, and cotton. Sudan is one of the world’s largest producers of gum arabic, a product harvested from the acacia tree that is used in food, cosmetics, and pharmaceuticals. Livestock farming, including cattle, sheep, and camels, is also a significant part of Sudan’s agricultural economy, particularly in the western and southern regions. However, the country’s agricultural sector faces challenges such as inadequate infrastructure, unpredictable rainfall, and land degradation.

Oil and Natural Resources

Sudan’s oil industry was once a major contributor to the national economy, especially before the secession of South Sudan. Before 2011, Sudan produced a significant amount of crude oil, much of which was exported to China and other countries. However, with the loss of oil fields in South Sudan, the country now faces significant challenges in its oil production capacity. Despite this, Sudan remains a producer of natural gas and minerals, including gold, which has become an increasingly important part of the country’s economy. The mining sector, particularly gold extraction, has seen growth in recent years, with Sudan emerging as one of Africa’s top producers of gold.

Trade and Infrastructure

Sudan has a mixed trade profile, exporting agricultural products, oil, and minerals while importing manufactured goods, machinery, and foodstuffs. The country has access to the Red Sea, which provides it with a vital maritime route for international trade. However, Sudan’s trade is constrained by internal conflicts, international sanctions, and limited infrastructure. The government has made efforts to improve the country’s infrastructure, including roads, railways, and ports, but progress has been slow due to financial constraints and political instability.

Economic Challenges

Sudan faces numerous economic challenges, including high inflation, unemployment, poverty, and the scarcity of foreign currency. The secession of South Sudan in 2011 led to a significant loss of oil revenue, and the country has struggled to rebuild its economy since then. Economic sanctions, which were imposed by the United States for many years, have also hampered Sudan’s ability to engage in international trade and access financing. Furthermore, internal conflicts in regions such as Darfur and South Kordofan have contributed to economic instability, displacement, and destruction of infrastructure.

Government of Sudan

Political Structure

Sudan operates as a republic, but its political structure has been subject to considerable instability over the past several decades. After years of military rule, Sudan has undergone transitions in government, especially following the 2019 uprising that led to the overthrow of long-time President Omar al-Bashir. The current government is a transitional regime composed of both civilian and military leaders, which was established after the ousting of Bashir. The transitional government is tasked with overseeing the transition to democratic governance, including organizing elections and drafting a new constitution.

Legislative System

Sudan’s legislative system is a mix of civilian and military leaders, with the country’s National Assembly serving as the legislative body. The assembly is made up of representatives from various political groups, including those that were part of the peace agreement that ended the conflict between the government and rebel groups. The assembly has the task of passing laws, overseeing the executive, and representing the interests of Sudanese citizens. However, the political system remains fluid, and there are ongoing challenges related to the consolidation of power and the formation of a fully civilian government.

Judiciary

Sudan’s judiciary operates independently of the executive branch, although the judicial system has faced challenges related to political interference and corruption. The Supreme Court is the highest court in the country, and lower courts handle cases related to civil, criminal, and family law. Sharia law also plays an important role in the judicial system, especially in matters relating to personal status, family law, and criminal justice. Efforts to reform the judiciary have been slow, and concerns about the fairness and independence of the judicial system persist.

Culture of Sudan

Art and Architecture

Sudanese art and architecture reflect the country’s diverse history and ethnic groups. Traditional art includes intricate beadwork, pottery, and weaving, often representing tribal and cultural identities. Sudan has a rich architectural heritage, with ancient monuments such as the pyramids of Meroë, which are located in the northeastern region of the country. These pyramids, built by the Kingdom of Kush, are similar in design to those of ancient Egypt but are smaller and more distinctive in their style. Sudanese architecture also includes mosques, traditional houses, and fortresses that blend African, Arab, and Islamic influences.

Music and Dance

Music plays an important role in Sudanese culture, with a wide variety of traditional music genres reflecting the country’s diverse ethnic groups. Sudanese music often features percussion instruments, stringed instruments like the oud, and vocal harmonies. Popular music styles in Sudan include traditional folk music, classical Arabic music, and modern genres influenced by African rhythms. Dance is an integral part of cultural celebrations, and many Sudanese dances are performed during festivals, weddings, and other significant events. Traditional dances are often accompanied by drumming and chanting, which serve to reinforce community bonds.

Cuisine

Sudanese cuisine is diverse, with influences from the Arab world, sub-Saharan Africa, and the Middle East. Staple foods in Sudan include bread, rice, millet, and sorghum, which are often served with stews, lentils, and vegetables. Meat, particularly lamb, goat, and beef, is commonly consumed, and dishes are often flavored with spices such as cumin, coriander, and garlic. One popular Sudanese dish is ful medames, a fava bean stew served with bread, often eaten for breakfast. Sudanese cuisine also features a variety of soups, salads, and pastries, reflecting both local ingredients and historical trade routes.

Festivals and Traditions

Sudan celebrates various religious and cultural festivals throughout the year. Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Adha are the most significant Islamic holidays, marking the end of Ramadan and the sacrifice of Ibrahim, respectively. These festivals are marked by prayers, feasts, and charitable giving. Other celebrations include the Moulid, a celebration of the birth of the Prophet Muhammad, and regional festivals that showcase Sudan’s diverse cultural traditions. Festivals in Sudan often involve music, dance, and the sharing of food, with a focus on strengthening community ties.

History of Sudan

Ancient Civilizations

Sudan has a long and rich history dating back to ancient times. The region was home to several advanced civilizations, including the Kingdom of Kush, which ruled over the northern part of Sudan and southern Egypt for many centuries. The Kushites were known for their pyramid-building culture, and their kingdom was a major player in the ancient world. The Kingdom of Meroë, part of the Kushite civilization, flourished from around 800 BCE to 350 CE and was known for its advanced metallurgy and trade networks. The area was also influenced by Egyptian civilization, and many aspects of Egyptian culture were integrated into Sudanese society.

Islamic and Colonial Period

In the 7th century, Islam spread into Sudan as Arab traders and conquerors moved southward, eventually leading to the dominance of Islam throughout the region. Sudan was subsequently ruled by various Islamic empires, including the Funj Sultanate and the Mahdist State in the 19th century. The British colonized Sudan in the 19th century, establishing it as part of the Anglo-Egyptian Sudan. During this period, Sudan’s resources, particularly its agricultural and mineral wealth, were exploited by the British, and local uprisings occurred against colonial rule.

Independence and Modern History

Sudan gained independence from Britain and Egypt in 1956, and its early years as a republic were marked by political instability. In 1955, just a year before independence, the First Sudanese Civil War broke out, largely driven by ethnic and religious tensions between the Muslim Arab north and the largely Christian and animist south. This conflict continued, with a ceasefire temporarily halting the violence in 1972. However, tensions reignited in the 1980s, leading to the Second Sudanese Civil War (1983–2005), which culminated in the secession of South Sudan in 2011.

Recent Developments

Sudan’s recent history has been marked by political upheaval, including the ousting of longtime President Omar al-Bashir in 2019 after months of protests. Bashir’s rule, which began in 1989, was marked by authoritarianism, corruption, and the Darfur conflict. After his removal from power, Sudan entered a transitional period with a power-sharing agreement between the military and civilian leaders. Despite challenges, such as economic instability and the ongoing conflict in some regions, Sudan is currently working toward democratic reforms and a more inclusive governance system.