Revitalising Sudan’s Gum Arabic Sector: Post-Conflict Challenges and Sustainable Solutions, Prof. Tarig Elsheikh, Dr Manal Khiery, Dr Hassan Mofadel, Dr Muneer Eltahir
Professor Tarig Elsheikh Mahmoud
University of Kordofan (Sudan)
Kampala International University (Uganda)
ORCID: 0000-0002-0546-3384
Dr Manal Khiery
Khartoum University (Sudan)
Kampala International University (Uganda)
ORCID: 0009-0006-6418-1543
Dr Hassan Ibrahim A. Mofadel
Kenana Sugar Company
Khartoum
Sudan
ORCID: 0000-0002-1751-488X
Dr Muneer Elyas Siddig Eltahir
University of Kordofan
Sudan
ORCID: 0000-0001-6494-9221
Type of Paper: Research
Received: 24 June 2025/ Revised: 16 July 2025 / Accepted: 17 July 2025 / Published: 22 July 2025
DOI: 10.47556/J.IJGA.1.1-2.2025.2
Purpose: This paper assesses the impact of the Sudanese war on the supply and value chains of gum Arabic (GA) and proposes urgent and sustainable solutions for revitalisation in the post-war period.
Design/Methodology/Approach: A multidisciplinary approach using a suitable framework was employed for this paper, integrating diverse knowledge, primary data, and expert judgement.
Findings: The conflict has led to the deforestation of GA trees, the forced displacement of producers, security unrest, and looting at GA markets, warehouses, and factories, as well as smuggling and disruption of GA trade.
Research Limitations/Implications: Strengthening political will and community engagement is essential to support this roadmap and develop effective GA strategies.
Practical Implications: In line with Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) 1, 7, 16 and 17, this paper presents solutions to revitalise Sudan’s gum Arabic sector, focusing on building consensus to support producers and other actors.
Keywords: Sudan; Gum Arabic; Supply and Value Chains; Deforestation; Post-Conflict Recovery; Sustainable Development Goals; SDGs.
Citation: Mahmoud, T.E., Khiry, M.A., Mofadel, H.I.A. and Eltahir, M.E.S. (2025): Revitalising Sudan’s Gum Arabic Sector: Post-Conflict Challenges and Sustainable Solutions. International Journal of Gum Arabic (IJGA), Vol. 1, Nos. 1/2, pp. 7-24.
