Bakery Reopens, Restoring Hope in War-Torn Shambat

In Sudan, where bread is a staple of daily life, the reopening of a bakery in the devastated Shambat neighborhood, north of Khartoum, is more than just a return of business—it is a symbol of resilience and hope.

The scars of war are still visible in Shambat, with buildings bearing the marks of the fierce battles that have ravaged the area since April 2023. Many essential services remain unavailable, making daily life a struggle for residents. However, the warm aroma of freshly baked bread, after nearly two years of absence, has lifted spirits in the community.

“For the first time in a long while, it feels like life is returning,” said Aida Al-Shiekh, a Shambat resident.

Hundreds of residents have gradually returned to the area since the Sudanese army reclaimed it from the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF), who had held control until October. Sudan has been engulfed in conflict since April 2023, when tensions between the military and RSF escalated into full-scale war.

Recent months have seen intensified fighting, with the military making significant territorial gains in Khartoum and other regions. Despite these advances, daily life remains difficult for those in Shambat. Basic necessities such as electricity and water are still scarce, forcing people to rely on firewood for cooking in the absence of cooking gas.

Humanitarian organizations have stepped in to provide essential aid, including flour, cooking oil, lentils, and beans. The U.N.’s World Food Program, working alongside local organizations, has been instrumental in delivering these supplies. Medical support is also being provided by the World Health Organization and Doctors Without Borders, in collaboration with local partners.

The conflict in Sudan has displaced over 14 million people and pushed parts of the country into the depths of famine. The death toll has surpassed 20,000, though the actual number is believed to be significantly higher.

While the challenges remain immense, the return of something as simple as a bakery in Shambat offers a glimmer of hope—a small but significant step toward normalcy in a community that has endured so much.