How warring factions gained influence in Sudan’s food system – and what it means for the current conflict
Militaries play a major role in the politics of many countries. They determine whether elections can occur and who can compete. From Egypt to Pakistan and Myanmar to Uganda, the military is often the most important powerholder.
- Sudan
- conflict
- food systems
By Danielle Resnick, Hala Abushama, Khalid Siddig, and Oliver Kiptoo KiruiFebruary 27, 2026
Militaries play a major role in the politics of many countries. They determine whether elections can occur and who can compete. From Egypt to Pakistan and Myanmar to Uganda, the military is often the most important powerholder.
In parallel, violent non-state actors—including criminal networks, terrorist groups and paramilitaries—have proliferated over the last two decades.
To maintain their influence and finance their operations, militaries and violent non-state actors often become heavily involved in both legal and illicit business activities. Studies of their economic activities often focus on their role in extracting natural resources like gold, oil and timber.
Their involvement in agricultural and food systems is less well understood.
This is important to study since many of the world’s most fragile countries are highly dependent on agriculture for economic growth. We drew on our multidisciplinary expertise in food systems and agriculture to help fill this gap. Our recently-published article looked at the role of the military and paramilitary in Sudan’s agrifood system just prior to the outbreak of the current war.