Sudan’s inflation eases slightly in September

October 17, 2024 (PORT SUDAN) – Sudan’s inflation rate dipped slightly to 215.52% in September from 218.18% in August, the Central Bureau of Statistics reported on Thursday, offering a glimmer of relief to a nation grappling with a devastating economic crisis.

This marginal slowdown in the year-on-year increase in consumer prices still leaves Sudanese citizens struggling with astronomical costs for basic goods and services.

“The rate of change in the general price level in September rose by 215.52% compared to the same month last year,” the Bureau said in a statement.

The urban inflation rate eased to 183.19% in September from 189.38% in August. Rural areas saw a smaller decline, with inflation edging down to 237.65% from 237.70%.

The slight improvement was not uniform across the country. Inflation decreased in 12 out of 18 states, rose in four, and remained stable in the White Nile and South Darfur states.

Kassala state saw the biggest drop, with inflation falling to 528.17% from a staggering 649.83% in August. The Northern state also experienced a significant decrease, with inflation easing by 95.38%.

However, West Darfur saw inflation surge by 85.24%, highlighting the uneven impact of the economic crisis. Blue Nile, Al Jazirah, and North Darfur also recorded increases.

The Bureau tracks inflation based on the prices of 663 commodities across 12 categories, including food and beverages, tobacco, clothing, housing, and transportation.

The ongoing conflict in Sudan has ravaged the economy, leaving millions without livelihoods and struggling to afford basic necessities.

According to the United Nations, 25.6 million people face hunger, with 8.5 million on the brink of famine. The slight easing of inflation in September provides little solace to a population facing such dire circumstances.