Weak Rainfall Threatens Sudan Farming Season

Sennar, August 5, 2026 - Sennar State has planted only 29 percent of its targeted area for the current agricultural season, as weak rainfall, unstable electricity supply and high production costs threaten output in one of Sudan's key farming regions. Atif Yousif, director of planning at the state Ministry of Production and Economic Resources, said Sennar had targeted more than 4.8 million feddans, with 36 percent prepared and 29 percent planted.

He cited low rainfall, unreliable power, high operating costs and limited transport as constraints. The poor start comes as farmers across central Sudan, Kordofan and Darfur report delayed and irregular rains. Sudan is already facing a severe hunger crisis linked to the war that began in April 2023, with nearly 19.5 million people - about 41 percent of the population - facing acute food insecurity.

Agriculture is a major source of income and food for Sudanese households, while rainfall also supports natural pasture for the country's large livestock herd. Sennar has financed 78 percent of its agricultural season and distributed seeds to smallholders, while also planting 30,000 feddans of cotton and 60,000 feddans of sorghum in irrigated projects.