Egypt-Sudan river transport resumes after six-year hiatus
May 1, 2025 (WADI HALFA) – The vessel Sinai arrived at Wadi Halfa port from Egypt on a trial voyage, marking the return of river cruises between Egypt and Sudan after a hiatus of nearly six years.
The Nile Valley River Navigation Authority announced on Friday the start of trial trips to prepare for the official resumption of the shipping line between Wadi Halfa and the High Dam. This step is expected to boost transport and trade between the two nations.
Chairman of the Authority, Mohammed Adam Abkar, confirmed this trip serves as the starting point for the return of river navigation in the coming days. He announced the resumption of Nile steamer trips via 3A International, the company that won the contract to operate the line in 2017.
Established in 1975, the Nile Valley River Navigation Authority is a joint Egyptian-Sudanese government institution specializing in transporting passengers and goods between the High Dam and Wadi Halfa ports.
The Egyptian Consul General in Wadi Halfa, Ambassador Basil Tammam, emphasized Egypt’s support for joint cooperation projects, particularly in the transport sector. He stressed efforts to overcome obstacles and facilitate visa procedures to ensure smooth movement between the countries.
The Chairman of 3A International explained that the trial voyage aims to verify the safety of the navigation route and complete technical arrangements. He noted that while vessels were ready over a year ago, fluctuating water levels and pier rehabilitation delayed the resumption.
He further stated that Wadi Halfa is positioned to become a major gateway for international trade into Africa, as the shipping line offers opportunities to link markets and enhance imports and exports.
Ali Hashem, Acting Executive Director of Halfa Locality, welcomed the delegation, highlighting the emotional impact on the people of the Nile Valley and the expected increase in passenger and cargo volume.
A representative of the High Council for the People of Halfa added that reactivating this vital shipping line serves as a true artery of communication and a fruit of integration between the two brotherly nations.
This development comes as hundreds of Sudanese refugees in Egypt return daily following improved security conditions in several states, including Khartoum.
More than 1.5 million Sudanese crossed into Egypt by air and land after the conflict began in mid-April 2023, joining over 3 million Sudanese who resided there before the war. Tens of thousands also entered through unofficial routes.
River navigation between Egypt and Sudan had been suspended since 2019 due to technical, operational, and economic reasons, including vessel breakdowns and high operating costs. Subsequent attempts to resume the service were further hindered by the security situation in Sudan.