After more than two years of devastating civil war, Sudan’s capital, Khartoum, is taking its first steps toward recovery.
The conflict, which erupted in April 2023 when tensions between the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) and the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) escalated into full-scale fighting, left the city in ruins and forced millions to flee.
In March this year, SAF regained control of Khartoum and its outskirts after some of the war’s deadliest battles, leaving widespread destruction across the capital.
Now, the United Nations estimates that nearly two million of the four million people who fled at the height of the conflict are expected to return by the end of 2025.
The city’s recovery, however, hinges on rebuilding shattered infrastructure. Water and power facilities, the presidential palace, and ministry buildings have been badly damaged.
Schools have been destroyed or converted into shelters, while cultural landmarks, including the National Museum, have been looted or attacked, according to UNESCO.
Local authorities and volunteer groups have launched early reconstruction efforts, clearing debris and restoring basic services.
But the UN says rebuilding critical infrastructure will require at least $350 million and could take years to complete.
The challenges go beyond physical damage. Large parts of the capital are contaminated with unexploded ordnance and land mines, posing serious risks to returning residents.
Meanwhile, humanitarian groups report tens of thousands of injuries across the country, though accurate casualty figures remain difficult to verify.
Nationwide, more than 12 million people remain displaced, with four million having sought refuge in neighboring countries.
Despite the daunting obstacles, the anticipated return of millions of residents signals a fragile but hopeful beginning for Khartoum’s recovery.
