Security authorities in Sudan’s army-controlled capital have launched a campaign to close bakeries over alleged pricing and weight violations, as bread shortages force residents back into queues across several neighbourhoods of Omdurman.
The closures, reported on Sunday by local Sudanese media, have affected several bakeries around Sabreen Market in the Al-Thawra district, where economic security personnel reportedly carried out inspections and ordered businesses to suspend operations.
Residents were seen queuing outside bakeries in Ombada, Salha and Al-Thawra, raising concerns that the enforcement campaign could further restrict bread supplies amid an already worsening cost-of-living crisis.
Sources cited by local Sudanese media said the closures followed alleged violations involving bread prices and loaf weights.
Prices now vary considerably between bakeries, with some selling five loaves for 2,000 Sudanese pounds and others charging 1,000 pounds for just two. Residents have also complained that some bakeries are reducing loaf sizes.
The enforcement measures come as bakery operators warn that soaring production costs are making it increasingly difficult to remain in business.
Local Sudanese media reported that a carton of yeast had reached 250,000 Sudanese pounds, while a container of cooking oil cost approximately 400,000 pounds.
Several bakeries have reportedly suspended operations independently of the security campaign, citing mounting expenses and their inability to cover production costs at existing prices.
The latest developments follow a sharp increase in bread prices across Khartoum, with some bakeries raising prices to 500 pounds per loaf over the weekend.
The Khartoum Bakers Union has previously warned that rising flour prices, fuel shortages, electricity costs and the depreciation of the Sudanese pound are threatening the viability of bakeries.
In September, authorities announced an agreement with bakery representatives intended to regulate prices, maintain flour supplies and prevent disruptions to bread production.
However, the renewed shortages and enforcement campaign highlight the difficulties facing the army-aligned administration as it attempts to control prices without resolving the rising costs confronting producers.
Sudan’s prolonged conflict has severely disrupted domestic production, supply chains and commercial activity, placing additional pressure on households already struggling with soaring food prices.
For residents of Omdurman, the latest closures threaten to turn an affordability crisis into a more immediate shortage of one of the country’s most essential food staples.
