Darfur markets feeling economic pinch

The economic measures announced by the Sudanese government have significantly increased daily consumer goods prices. Darfur states are most affected because of the distance from the centre which provides products to the markets.

In Nyala, capital of South Darfur and one of the three largest cities in Sudan, the increased prices have caused suffering to residents A woman from Nyala told Radio Dabanga that SDG 20 ($3) cannot buy a vegetable meal.

Town markets in El Fasher, capital of North Darfur, are also witnessing a significant rise in consumer goods prices.

The employees in El Gedaref in eastern Sudan have expressed frustration at the new limited increases in salaries which cannot keep pace with the steady rise in prices.

An employee told Radio Dabanga that the increase in salaries for employee in the health sector has ranged from SDG 395 ($60) for married couples who have children to SDG 320 ($49) for singles.

He has attributed the disparity in salaries for employees of the health sector for infection allowance which is SDG 100 ($15).

The employees have described the increases as not commensurate with the huge publicity that accompanied their approval and which do not cover the basic family needs.