RSF control cripples harvest in Sudan’s Al-Jazirah Scheme
May 17, 2024 (WAD MADANI) – Farmers in Sudan’s vast Al-Jazirah Scheme reported a near-total failure of the cotton and wheat harvests due to the ongoing conflict and control of the area by the Rapid Support Forces (RSF).
The exception lies in the Managil and 24 Qarshi areas, still under army control in western Al-Jazirah. Here, harvests proceeded as usual.
Alaa El Din Al-Bilawi, a farmer in South Al-Jazirah, explained that the cotton harvest failed because ginning factories, crucial for processing cotton, are closed. This leaves the crop vulnerable to damage in the fields.
Cotton and wheat are critical crops for both export and domestic consumption in Sudan. The failure of these harvests is a significant blow to the nation’s economy and food security.
The situation is particularly dire in the south, where 55,000 acres were planted with cotton before the RSF took control of Al-Jazirah last December. Since then, the RSF has expanded its influence heavily, reaching the borders of neighbouring Sennar State.
Fear and displacement hinder harvest efforts
Adam, a farmer in West Al-Hisahisa, spoke of the challenges farmers face due to the RSF’s presence. He highlighted the constant fear of harassment and theft, which, coupled with the displacement of many farmers, has significantly hampered harvest efforts.
Adam, who requested anonymity, explained that RSF forces target farmers in their fields, stealing harvested crops. This practice, witnessed with lentil crops, has forced some farmers to abandon harvesting altogether. The result: a majority of Al-Jazirah Scheme farmers have lost their primary source of income.
A recent U.S. Food Policy Research Institute study paints a grim picture. It found that one-third of Sudanese farmers considered the “crucial backbone of the economy,” have been displaced due to the conflict. Based on a survey of 3,200 smallholder farmers nationwide, the study confirms disruptions in market access and the lack of essential agricultural inputs.
RSF confiscates harvests
Alaa al-Din Al-Bilawi further described instances where the RSF forced farmers to harvest crops only to confiscate them and transport them out of the state for the RSF’s own benefit.
Similar reports came from the Barkat area, where farmers claim the RSF deployed harvesters to collect wheat from a 60,000-acre area and confiscated the entire yield.
The widespread looting by the RSF extends beyond crops. Residents in Al-Jazirah face desperate living conditions and severe food shortages due to the pillaging of household stores. Traditionally, Al-Jazirah residents relied on seasonal crop storage to ensure food self-sufficiency.
With the wheat harvest in jeopardy due to overripe crops, farmer “F.A.” from South Al-Jazirah made a desperate plea to international organizations to intervene and facilitate the harvest.
Preparation for the upcoming summer season typically begins in May-June. However, farmers paint a bleak picture for the next harvest. Farmer “F.A.” highlighted the displacement of the majority, the lack of essential supplies like fuel and fertilizer, and the ongoing security concerns. He summarized the situation as “terrifying” for the agricultural sector.
The U.S. Food Policy Research Institute study reinforces this concern, stating that 40% of farmers nationwide are currently unable to prepare for the next agricultural season.
Al-Bilawi echoed this sentiment, stating that the season has essentially failed before it even began. He described a deteriorating situation on the ground, prompting many farmers to consider relocating their operations to more secure areas.
Governor Ibrahim Mustafa announced an emergency plan to repair irrigation canals for the summer season, but this effort faces significant challenges. The Sudanese News Agency reported the looting of over 45,000 fertilizer sacks and vehicles, alongside an estimated initial loss of 50 billion Sudanese pounds for the project. The report confirms RSF control over 80% of the Gezira Scheme.