Sudan’s prime minister pledges support for Al Jazirah Scheme

April 13, 2026 (AL JAZIRAH) – Sudan’s Prime Minister Kamil Idris launched the wheat harvest at the Al Jazirah Scheme on Monday, pledging to resolve obstacles facing the massive agricultural project.

During an inspection visit, Idris visited the Wad al-Turabi section to witness a yield of 26 bags per acre achieved by local farmer Abdallah Yussif. The Al Jazirah Scheme remains one of the largest irrigation projects in the world under a single management system.

The prime minister praised the workers and farmers, describing them as the backbone of the project. He noted that high productivity levels indicate Sudan is moving toward self-sufficiency in wheat, a vital strategic commodity.

Idris reaffirmed the government’s commitment to addressing technical and logistical challenges. He said the administration aims to return the scheme to its position among the world’s leading agricultural projects.

Al-Tahir Ibrahim al-Khair, the Governor of Al Jazirah State, said the prime minister’s oversight has positively impacted operations. He added that the government is determined to reduce the wheat import bill by relying on domestic production.

The Governor of the Al Jazirah Scheme announced that 213,000 acres were cultivated this year. He revealed plans to triple that area to over 600,000 acres next year, alongside preparations to plant 500,000 acres during the summer season.

Project management acknowledged the support of various partners in achieving this year’s yields, including the World Food Programme, Relief Services, and Harvest Company, as well as local security forces.

Sudan currently imports between 70% and 80% of its annual wheat requirements. The country needs approximately 3.5 million tonnes of grain annually to bridge the food gap.

Previous estimates show Sudan has imported roughly 2.7 million tonnes of wheat and flour at a cost exceeding $1 billion. Domestic production has historically fallen short of total annual consumption.