Country Profile: Sudan
Sudan, located in northeastern Africa, is bordered by the Red Sea to the east, with a diverse geography that includes vast deserts and the fertile banks of the Nile River. The country's population is approximately 50 million, characterized by a mix of ethnic groups and a youthful demographic, with a median age of only 19.5 years. Economically, Sudan faces significant challenges due to ongoing civil conflicts and hyperinflation, adversely affecting agricultural production and overall economic stability. Governance has been turbulent, shifting from military rule to transitional leadership following the ousting of longtime president Omar al-Bashir in 2019.
Geography
Sudan spans an area of approximately 1,861,484 square kilometers, making it slightly less than one-fifth the size of the United States. The country is predominantly arid, with the Nile serving as its primary water source. Terrain varies from flat plains to deserts, and the climate is generally hot and dry, with a rainy season that varies by region.
- 1,861,484 sq km – Total area
- 60.3% – Agricultural land (2023 estimate)
- 68.7% – Installed hydroelectric capacity (2023 estimate)
People and Society
With a population of about 50.5 million, Sudan is home to over 500 ethnic groups, including a dominant Sudanese Arab population. The country has a youthful demographic, with approximately 40.1% under the age of 15. Arabic and English are the official languages, and the society is predominantly Sunni Muslim, with a small Christian minority.
- 50,467,278 – Estimated population for 2024
- 40.1% – Population aged 0-14 years
- 67.8 years – Life expectancy at birth (2024 estimate)
Economy
Sudan's economy is classified as low-income, significantly impacted by civil unrest and hyperinflation. Agricultural production accounts for 22.1% of GDP, with major crops including sugarcane and sorghum. The economy is further burdened by high unemployment and limited access to basic commodities, particularly in rural areas.
- $94.42 billion – Real GDP (PPP) estimated for 2024
- -29.4% – Projected GDP growth rate for 2023
- 11.45% – Unemployment rate (2023 estimate)
Government
Sudan is a presidential republic with a mixed legal system incorporating Islamic law and English common law. Following the 2019 ousting of President Omar al-Bashir, the governance structure has been in transition, currently led by General Abd al-Fattah al-Burhan. The political environment remains unstable, with military control over significant aspects of governance.
- 1 January 1956 – Date of independence
- 17 years – Minimum voting age
- 18 states – Number of administrative divisions
Military and Security
The Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) consist of ground, naval, and air forces, alongside the Rapid Support Forces (RSF). The ongoing internal conflict has led to significant military expenditures and involvement in domestic security issues. The SAF plays a central role in Sudan's governance and economy.
- 200,000+ – Estimated size of the SAF prior to recent conflicts
- 1% – Military expenditure as a percentage of GDP (2021 estimate)
- 18-33 years – Age range for compulsory military service
Energy
Sudan relies heavily on hydroelectricity for its energy needs, with significant installed capacity from this source. However, access to electricity remains limited, particularly in rural areas. The country's energy consumption per capita is low, reflecting broader economic challenges.
- 63.2% – Electrification rate for the total population (2022 estimate)
- 68.7% – Hydro power share of total installed capacity (2023 estimate)
- 68,000 bbl/day – Total petroleum production (2023 estimate)
Environment
Sudan faces multiple environmental challenges, including water scarcity, soil erosion, and desertification. Urbanization is growing, but water pollution and inadequate supplies of potable water remain pressing issues.
- 60.3% – Agricultural land in 2023
- 24.4 – Particulate matter emissions (2019 estimate)
- 12% – Forested area (2023 estimate)
Transportation
Sudan’s transportation infrastructure includes extensive rail networks and several airports. However, the ongoing conflicts significantly hinder infrastructure development and maintenance.
- 7,251 km – Total railway length (2014)
- 45 – Number of airports (2025 estimate)
- 14 – Total vessels in the merchant marine (2023)
Communications
The communications landscape in Sudan is characterized by a reliance on mobile technology, with significant numbers of mobile subscriptions but limited internet penetration.
- 34.7 million – Mobile cellular subscriptions (2022 estimate)
- 26% – Internet user penetration (2020 estimate)
- 156,000 – Fixed-line telephone subscriptions (2022 estimate)
Key Metrics
| Metric | Value | Note |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 50,467,278 | 2024 estimate |
| Area | 1,861,484 sq km | Total area |
| GDP (PPP) | $94.42 billion | 2024 estimate |
| Unemployment Rate | 11.45% | 2023 estimate |
| Life Expectancy | 67.8 years | 2024 estimate |
| Birth Rate | 32.95 births/1,000 | 2025 estimate |
| Electrification Rate | 63.2% | Total population (2022) |
| Youth Dependency Ratio | 70.7 | 2024 estimate |
| Agricultural Land | 60.3% | 2023 estimate |
| Total Fertility Rate | 4.41 children/woman | 2025 estimate |
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