Since the outbreak of conflict on 15 April, Sudan’s communications infrastructure has been heavily impacted as a result of damage to telecommunications towers and the power grid. The reliability of the one remaining Mobile Network Operator still functioning is affected by severe congestion.  

WFP, as the lead agency of the ETC, began sharing connectivity with the humanitarian community in Port Sudan on 24 April. The ETC was activated on 25 May 2023 to support the urgent need for essential internet connectivity and security communication services across Sudan, as well as to facilitate coordination and provision of common ICT services following service blackouts due to the conflict.

The ETC in Sudan works in close collaboration with UN agencies and humanitarian partners for strategic planning and to address challenges. The Cluster also engages with national authorities and Mobile Network Operators (MNOs) to ensure connectivity for the humanitarian community.

In 2024, the ETC plans to scale up connectivity services in key operational locations—Kassala, Gedaref, Wad Madani, and Kosti—and expand the VHF radio network in strategic areas.

The ETC requires US$6.3 million to deliver services in up to 10 common operational areas, including data connectivity, helpdesk support, and security communications services.

See the Sudan ICT Profile for more information on the national telecommunications infrastructure.