Roots of Famine in Sudan’s Killing Fields

Abstract

The causes of famine in Sudan and historical events that have led to the present turbulent situation in the country are discussed with reference to war, militia activity, agricultural policies, and World Bank/IMF policies. The historical nature of the animosity between the principally Muslim north, and the extensively Christian south of Sudan is examined. The emergence of the militias in the south have massively aggravated the agricultural crisis brought about by unreliable rainfall. Smallholder farmers and pastoralists have developed ways over many years to cope with and survive periods of drought and instability though agriculture and livestock practices aimed at minimizing risks rather than maximizing returns. However these community based mechanisms have been eroded by years of conflict and government policy which discriminates against them. The need for international diplomatic initiatives to end the violence in Sudan which has prevented any real advances to be made through the many aid programmes which have been initiated by donor agencies is highlighted.