Sudan: Further tribal protests likely in eastern Sudan through September

Event

Further protests by supporters of local tribes involved in an ongoing dispute with the central government are likely in eastern Sudan through September. Protesters affiliated with the Beja Congress are demanding the current government's resignation and a government representative of all regions of Sudan. Unrest is also motivated by disputes arising from the 2020 Juba Peace Agreement. Protests could occur in the Red Sea, Kassala, or Gedaref states.

Demonstrators reportedly blocked the road leading from Port Sudan to Khartoum and protested near ports in Suakin and Port Sudan for a second day, Sept. 18. Protest organizers have threatened to escalate protests by blocking mining sites and Port Sudan New International Airport (PZU); they have also threatened to initiate protests in other states in the center and east of the country.

Officials are likely to deploy additional security personnel to all protest sites. Clashes between protesters and the security forces are likely if demonstrators are overly disruptive, ignore orders to disperse, or if they engage in acts of public violence. Protesters may seek to continue to block roads, including access to sea ports and airports. Any such protests could disrupt travel and supply chains. Lengthy blockages could result in shortages of some goods, both in the east and center of the country.

Advice

Liaise with trusted contacts before traveling or routing goods through eastern Sudan. Reconfirm the status of flights and airport operations at PZU before departure. Avoid all demonstrations and concentrations of security personnel. Do not attempt to drive through protester roadblocks. Seek alternative routes or wait for local officials to clear roads. Maintain contact with your diplomatic representation. Prepare for supply chain disruptions should protests escalate or persist. Review and update contingency plans out of an abundance of caution.