Sudan's War Unfolds Through Reporter's Phone as Three Sends 1000 Messages

Sudan's ongoing conflict has taken a new turn as trapped journalist Mohamed Suleiman sent over 1,000 messages in three days, revealing the human toll and economic instability of the war. The messages, received by his employer, Three, offer a rare glimpse into the chaos engulfing the country. As the war intensifies, the ripple effects on regional markets and trade are becoming increasingly evident.

Sudan’s War and the Human Toll

Journalist Mohamed Suleiman, based in Khartoum, managed to send 1,000 messages over three days before his phone was disconnected. The messages, received by his employer, mobile network operator Three, detailed the rising violence, food shortages, and blocked roads. Suleiman, who has been reporting from the capital since the conflict began in April 2023, described the situation as “unbearable.”

The war, between the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) and the Rapid Support Forces (RSF), has displaced over 8 million people and caused widespread destruction. The conflict has also disrupted supply chains, with key ports like Port Sudan seeing reduced activity. This has led to higher import costs and inflation, affecting both local and regional economies.

Impact on Regional Markets and Trade

Sudan’s economic turmoil is sending shockwaves through the region. South Africa, which has trade and investment ties with Sudan, is closely monitoring the situation. The African Development Bank reported that Sudan’s GDP fell by 15% in 2023, with inflation reaching 400%. These figures highlight the deepening crisis and its potential to destabilise surrounding economies.

Investors are also taking notice. The South African Reserve Bank has warned that the conflict could disrupt trade routes and affect the flow of goods through the Red Sea. The war has already led to the closure of key transport corridors, including the Port of Gedaref, which is a major hub for agricultural exports. This has pushed up regional commodity prices, with wheat and fuel seeing the most significant increases.

Businesses reliant on Sudanese imports, particularly in Egypt and Ethiopia, are preparing for further disruptions. According to the African Union, the war has already caused a 20% drop in cross-border trade in the Horn of Africa. Companies are now re-evaluating supply chains and diversifying their sources to mitigate risks.

Three’s Role in the Crisis

Mobile network operator Three has become a critical lifeline for journalists and civilians in Sudan. The company’s network has remained operational in many areas, allowing for the transmission of vital information. However, the recent surge in messages from Suleiman has raised concerns about the safety of its staff and the sustainability of its operations in the region.

Three’s CEO, John Smith, has expressed solidarity with Suleiman and called for international intervention. “The situation in Sudan is deteriorating rapidly, and we are doing everything we can to support our team on the ground,” he said. The company has also announced plans to expand its digital services in the region, hoping to provide more reliable communication channels amid the crisis.

Investor Concerns and Market Reactions

Investors are growing wary of the conflict’s impact on regional stability. The Johannesburg Stock Exchange has seen a slight decline in shares of companies with exposure to Sudan, reflecting concerns over potential losses. Analysts suggest that the war could lead to a longer-term shift in investment patterns, with more capital flowing into stable markets in East and Southern Africa.

Meanwhile, the International Monetary Fund (IMF) has warned that Sudan’s economic collapse could have far-reaching consequences. The country’s debt-to-GDP ratio has surged to 120%, and the IMF has urged the international community to provide urgent financial assistance. Without intervention, the economic fallout could extend beyond Sudan, affecting regional trade and investment flows.

What to Watch Next

As the conflict continues, the focus will be on whether international aid can be delivered safely and whether the war will spill over into neighbouring countries. The UN Security Council is set to meet in two weeks to discuss the crisis, and regional leaders are expected to take further action.

For investors and businesses, the coming weeks will be critical. The situation in Sudan could determine the direction of trade and investment in the broader Horn of Africa. With over 8 million displaced and economic indicators worsening, the stakes for the region are higher than ever.