Dr. Inas Khalil
Public Health and Epidemiology Specialist
The ongoing conflict in Sudan, which began on April 15, 2023, has led to devastating environmental consequences that threaten the health of the population both now and in the future. This article discusses the major health and environmental risks associated with the war as part of a series of articles aiming to shed light on the negative impact of the conflict on Sudan’s healthcare infrastructure, already nearly collapsed before the war, and the effects on the health of the Sudanese population in general.
If we first examine water, air, and soil, we find a major environmental crisis affecting everyone across Sudan’s geography. Water contamination has resulted from the destruction of water infrastructure, including treatment plants and pumping stations, undermining access to clean water. Toxic substances from damaged industrial facilities have also leaked into water sources, posing severe health risks. In addition, massive oil fires have significantly degraded air quality by releasing hazardous gases and pollutants. A major fire in January 2025 produced a huge cloud of smoke that spread over more than 300 kilometers.
Continuous shelling in Khartoum has also destroyed industrial zones, leading to toxic substances leaking into the soil. Environmental disasters have not been limited to direct combat; increased demand for firewood and charcoal due to the lack of electricity has accelerated deforestation, negatively contributing to environmental degradation and biodiversity loss.
As a result of these conditions, the war has increased the risk of waterborne diseases such as dengue fever, malaria, cholera, and diarrhea because of contaminated water sources and poor sanitation.
All these environmental disasters have directly affected public health. Air pollution resulting from industrial fires and related damage has caused widespread respiratory problems among the population. Another major consequence has been the collapse of the pharmaceutical industry, leading to shortages of life-saving medications, including asthma treatments and inhalers.
The crises facing Sudanese people have continued to multiply because of the war. The conflict has disrupted food production and distribution systems, pushing millions to the brink of famine. Approximately 42% of Sudan’s population suffers from severe acute food insecurity.
Environmental challenges contributing to disease outbreaks are still being monitored. Floods and heavy rains, combined with the absence of effective state institutions, have led to increased mosquito breeding, raising the risk of disease transmission, including malaria, dengue fever, and chikungunya.
Poor sanitation and hygiene conditions, along with limited access to clean water and sanitation facilities, have further contributed to the spread of cholera and other waterborne diseases. It is also common during wars for civilians to flee conflict zones to safer areas, and this mass displacement has led to overcrowding and poor living conditions, increasing the risk of disease transmission.
Through this brief overview of the escalating environmental and health crises facing Sudan’s population, we stress the urgent need for Sudanese authorities to address these compounded disasters through an integrated approach that includes conflict resolution, resource management, and community empowerment. International support is critical to rebuilding resource management structures and governance systems in conflict-affected areas.
From a technical perspective, I recommend conducting comprehensive environmental damage assessments to guide recovery efforts, prioritizing the rehabilitation of water, sanitation, and healthcare infrastructure, while also promoting sustainable land-use practices and environmental governance to protect Sudan’s natural resources.
