Communication Crisis in Sudan

There are concerns that communication services in Sudan might be cut off. An expert and former official in the Sudanese Communications Authority revealed that the Rapid Support Forces have ordered two major communication companies, Sudanese and MTN, to disconnect communication and internet services for 36 million subscribers in the country. This decision was made because Sudatel, another company, was unable to maintain the fiber optic network cable for Darfur due to the ongoing war. As a result, several states in Darfur have lost access to telecommunications and the internet.

Control Over Communication Servers

The former official also mentioned that the Rapid Support Forces have control over the areas where the main servers of the two communication companies are located. This poses a bigger problem than just interrupted communication and internet services. It could also affect banking applications, as the main servers could be closed or sabotaged, making it difficult to operate them again. If this happens, Sudan might be completely cut off from the rest of the world for a long time.

Challenges Faced by Telecommunication Companies

Workers in telecommunication companies in Sudan have reported security and logistical problems that have led to the suspension of two major companies in the country. Additionally, entire states have lost coverage and are unable to access telecommunication and internet services.

A Dangerous Development

The former official also expressed concern that the largest operator in Sudan, Zain, might join the South African companies, Sudani and MTN. This would be a dangerous development in the ongoing war and a clear violation of human rights.

The Conflict in Sudan

Since mid-April 2023, the Sudanese army, led by President Abdel Fattah al-Burhan, and the Rapid Support Forces, led by Mohamed Hamdan Dagalo (Hemedti), have been engaged in a war. This conflict has resulted in more than 13,000 deaths and over 7 million people being displaced as refugees, according to the United Nations.

Source: Al Jazeera