Keeping Sudanese businesses competitive

Context

Sudan is the third largest country in Africa. However, political instability and armed conflicts are weakening its economic development. In 2024, the economy shrank by 40%.

The ongoing civil war has damaged large parts of the economic infrastructure, and the agricultural processing industry has been particularly hard hit. Many production facilities have been destroyed, which has put jobs at risk. The damage to roads is hampering foreign trade, and the financial system is suffering as a result of systemic risks and liquidity bottlenecks.

Current challenges include high inflation, unemployment and a fragile political situation. Young people and women are particularly affected by the high unemployment rate.

Objective

The professional and economic situation of Sudanese entrepreneurs has improved – particularly with regard to businesses that want to develop or maintain their business models in crisis contexts.

Approach

The project works in three priority areas:

1. It advises businesses in order to secure and develop their business models. As part of this, it provides network platforms such as business clubs, an online platform for office management and advice on relocating. It also offers language courses to young entrepreneurs.
2. It promotes business associations and farmers’ organisations through training on how to increase yields and process agricultural products. In addition, it develops business alliances to improve local economies.
3. It empowers women economically by providing training in business topics, creating networks through the Women-Business platform and inspiring them through role models of successful businesswomen. Furthermore, displaced women entrepreneurs receive psychosocial support.

The incorporation of the Sudanese diaspora and integration of Sudanese people into the labour markets of neighbouring countries make an additional contribution to the economic stability of the region.

Last updated: February 2025