Minister: 23 Million Sudanese Now Living in Poverty Amid War Impact

The Minister of Social Welfare, Mutasim Ahmed Saleh, has disclosed that the ongoing conflict has plunged 71% of Sudan’s population—around 23 million people—below the poverty line. He said the rate had soared from 21% before the war, reflecting the severe toll of economic collapse and widespread loss of income across the country.

Speaking in Port Sudan, Saleh said the government remains committed to combating poverty through practical measures that stimulate production and create employment opportunities. He urged companies to channel social responsibility funds into projects that build community resilience and support essential services instead of short-term relief.

The minister highlighted the growing importance of microfinance as a tool for recovery, saying that many Sudanese families had lost their sources of income and now depend on small business support. He announced plans to simplify loan guarantees and expand funding in partnership with the Central Bank to make financing more accessible for low-income groups.

Saleh concluded by stressing that poverty alleviation cannot rely on aid alone but requires productive investment and institutional cooperation. He reaffirmed the government’s focus on transitioning from relief to development by empowering citizens to participate actively in rebuilding Sudan’s war-affected economy.