Sudan’s government formally returned to the capital, Khartoum, on Sunday, marking its first presence there since the outbreak of war with the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) in April 2023. Prime Minister Kamel Idris, arriving from Port Sudan where the administration had been temporarily based, described the move as a national turning point and promised improved services, stronger security, and better living conditions.
Idris announced plans to rebuild hospitals, rehabilitate schools and universities — with special focus on the University of Khartoum — and strengthen health and education systems. He also revealed that the 2026 state budget had been submitted without introducing new financial burdens on citizens, with targets to cut inflation to 70%, boost GDP growth to 10%, and stabilize exchange rates. Official figures released in November put inflation at 74.2%.
Describing the current year as a “year of peace”, Idris framed the government’s return as part of a broader recovery effort following the army’s announcement on May 21 that it had regained full control of Khartoum after battles with the RSF. The conflict, which began in April 2023, has killed tens of thousands, displaced millions, and left the RSF controlling most of Darfur, while the army holds the capital and large parts of the remaining states.
