Sudan: Sudanese Women Turn to Enterprise After War and Displacement
In the wake of war and displacement in Sudan, many women are stepping into roles as entrepreneurs to support their families and communities.
After nearly three years of conflict and economic disarray in Sudan, a significant number of women are emerging as entrepreneurs in response to the devastating impact of war. The ongoing fighting between the Sudanese Armed Forces and the Rapid Support Forces has forced many families to flee conflict zones, particularly Khartoum, seeking refuge in safer cities like Atbara and Port Sudan. This mass displacement has dismantled traditional household dynamics and disrupted typical income sources, leading to heightened challenges for many families.
The shift in responsibility has placed a greater burden on women, who are increasingly relying on their ability to generate income to maintain family stability. Community activists have noted a remarkable rise in the number of small businesses initiated by women in the host cities over the past two years. These entrepreneurial ventures are diverse, ranging from food and clothing sales to cosmetic distribution and domestic services, with many utilizing social media platforms for online trading, showcasing a blend of innovation and resilience in the face of hardship.
This transformation highlights not only the adaptability of Sudanese women but also the broader implications for their communities, as women's entrepreneurial activities contribute significantly to local economies amid an ongoing crisis. As they navigate these new roles, these women are not just seeking to survive but are also carving out space for leadership and empowerment in a challenging socio-economic landscape, paving the way for a new generation of community-minded female leaders in Sudan.