Sudan’s Fuel Crisis Raises Transport Costs and Deepens Workers’ Hardship

PORT SUDAN, SUDAN — October 24, 2026: Rising fuel prices and shortages are making daily life increasingly difficult for workers across Sudan, where years of conflict and economic disruption have weakened incomes and made essential goods harder to afford.

According to Al Jazeera, minibus driver Azhari Mohamed in Port Sudan spends long hours working and waiting in fuel queues. He says shortages reduce the time he can spend earning money, while transport income is no longer enough to comfortably cover vehicle operating costs and household expenses.

Transport Costs Put Pressure on Household Budgets

Fuel shortages have pushed up public transport fares. Sudan’s transport authorities and industry representatives have reported increases in intercity bus and minibus fares, placing an additional burden on workers who rely on public transport to reach their jobs.

Aziza Ibrahim, a cleaner in Port Sudan, told Al Jazeera that rising travel expenses forced her to reduce the number of days she works. Her experience illustrates how transport costs can directly affect household income and access to employment.

War and Supply Disruptions Drive the Crisis

Sudan’s conflict between the Sudanese Armed Forces and the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces began in April 2023. Damage to oil infrastructure, reduced domestic production, import difficulties and shortages of foreign currency have contributed to fuel supply problems.

Analysts cited by Al Jazeera also point to import requirements that some fuel companies have struggled to meet. Reduced competition and limited supplies can worsen shortages, while higher petrol and diesel prices increase the cost of transporting goods.

Higher Fuel Prices Affect More Than Drivers

Traders in Omdurman say higher fuel costs have increased the expense of delivering goods, with some transport costs rising substantially. These pressures can be passed on to consumers through higher prices for everyday products.

With households already facing the consequences of war and declining purchasing power, the fuel crisis adds another obstacle to earning a living and meeting basic needs.

Source: Al Jazeera — Sudan’s soaring fuel prices make getting by harder for workers.

Editorial note: This article is based on published reporting and attributed accounts. Prices and conditions can vary by location and may change as the conflict and fuel supply situation develop.