Sudan

World Book Index

Introduction

Sudan, a country rich in history and cultural diversity, has undergone significant transformations over the centuries. The settlement of Arab nomads between the 14th and 15th centuries marked the beginning of a profound Islamization process that shaped the nation's identity from the 16th to the 19th centuries. Since achieving independence from Anglo-Egyptian co-rule in 1956, Sudan has been characterized by a series of military regimes that have predominantly favored Islamic-oriented governance. The most notable geopolitical shift occurred in 2011 when South Sudan gained independence following a referendum, further complicating the political landscape of the region.

Neighboring countries

Central African Republic - Chad - Egypt - Eritrea - Ethiopia - Libya - South Sudan

Geography

Area
Total: 1,861,484 sq km
Land: 1,731,671 sq km
Water: 129,813 sq km

Sudan's geography is marked by its vast expanse, making it the third-largest country in Africa. The terrain is predominantly flat and arid, characterized by extensive desert regions, particularly in the north. The Nile River, which flows through the country from south to north, is a vital water source that supports agriculture and sustains life in an otherwise dry environment. The climate is primarily hot and dry, with an arid desert climate prevailing in most areas. However, the rainy season, which varies by region, typically occurs between April and November, bringing much-needed precipitation to the agricultural sectors. Sudan is endowed with natural resources, including petroleum, and has small reserves of iron ore, copper, chromium ore, zinc, tungsten, mica, silver, and gold, alongside potential for hydropower generation.

People and Society

Population
Total: 50,467,278 (2024 estimated)

Sudan is a melting pot of cultures and ethnicities, with the population comprising approximately 70% Sudanese Arabs, alongside significant groups such as the Fur, Beja, Nuba, Ingessana, Uduk, Fallata, Masalit, Dajo, Gimir, Tunjur, and Berti. In total, there are over 500 distinct ethnic groups, each contributing to the rich tapestry of Sudanese society. The official languages are Arabic and English, reflecting the country's colonial history and its Arab heritage. Additionally, indigenous languages such as Nubian, Ta Bedawie, and Fur are spoken among various communities. The predominant religion is Sunni Islam, with a small Christian minority present. The population growth rate stands at 2.55% (2024 estimated), indicating a youthful demographic that poses both opportunities and challenges for the nation’s development.

Government

Government type
Presidential republic

Capital
Name: Khartoum

Sudan operates as a presidential republic, where the executive power is vested in the Sovereign Council, currently chaired by General Abd-al-Fattah al-BURHAN Abd-al-Rahman, who has held the position since 11 November 2021. This dual role as both the chief of state and head of government places him at the center of Sudan's political landscape. The country’s diplomatic representation in the United States is led by Ambassador Mohamed Abdalla IDRIS, who has been in office since 16 September 2022. Conversely, the U.S. diplomatic mission in Sudan is currently vacant, with Chargé d'Affaires Colleen Crenwelge serving since May 2024.

Economy

Economic overview
Sudan's economy is classified as a low-income Sahel economy, severely impacted by the ongoing civil war, which has devastated rural income and disrupted essential services. The conflict has led to significant increases in basic commodity prices, industrial production declines, and disruptions in the agricultural supply chain, communications, and commerce. Hyperinflation and currency depreciation have further exacerbated food access issues and humanitarian conditions, creating a dire economic landscape for the population.

Real GDP (purchasing power parity)
$94.42 billion (2024 estimated)
$109.147 billion (2023 estimated)
$154.672 billion (2022 estimated)

Real GDP per capita
$1,900 (2024 estimated)
$2,200 (2023 estimated)
$3,100 (2022 estimated)

Exports
$5.908 billion (2022 estimated)
$6.664 billion (2021 estimated)
$5.065 billion (2020 estimated)

Exports - partners
UAE 21%, China 17%, Saudi Arabia 16%, Malaysia 9%, Egypt 8% (2023)

Exports - commodities
Crude petroleum, gold, oil seeds, sheep and goats, ground nuts (2023)

Imports
$11.575 billion (2022 estimated)
$10.271 billion (2021 estimated)
$10.52 billion (2020 estimated)

Imports - partners
China 21%, India 19%, Egypt 16%, UAE 14%, Saudi Arabia 7% (2023)

Imports - commodities
Raw sugar, wheat flours, refined petroleum, garments, packaged medicine (2023)

Human Development Index

The country's Human Development Index (HDI) is 0.511, ranking it 176th out of 193 countries tested. (more information)

World Happiness Report

The World Happiness Report ranked the country 134th out of 158 countries tested with a score of 4.139. (more information)