Sudan's historic Al-Sunut acacia forest, a vital ecosystem south of Khartoum, has been devastated by nearly three years of conflict, resulting in the destruction of this important natural reserve which once covered 1,500 hectares. Khartoum state environmental official Boushra Hamed indicated that the area has lost around 60 percent of its green cover since fighting began in April 2023, largely due to logging activities for commercial timber and charcoal production. This destruction has not only affected the environment but also altered the landscape significantly, as century-old trees have been felled using electric saws, leading to barren fields where lush greenery once thrived.

The implications of the forest's destruction extend beyond mere aesthetic loss; it poses serious risks to local wildlife and the ecological balance of the region. Aboubakr Al-Tayeb, Khartoum's forestry administrator, highlights that various migratory bird species that relied on the forest for shelter are now threatened. The Al-Sunut forest served as a critical habitat for over a hundred bird species from Europe, which now face challenges in their migration patterns and breeding habits due to the loss of their natural habitat.

Additionally, the environmental toll is compounded by human concerns, particularly regarding the impact on agriculture and flood management. Agricultural engineer Al-Nazir Ali Babiker warns that the reduction of tree cover has eliminated a vital barrier that previously mitigated seasonal flooding, a recurrent disaster that often leads to widespread displacement of families and damage to homes. This multifaceted crisis highlights the urgent need for intervention and restoration efforts to protect both the natural ecosystem and the communities that depend on it.