| Location | Sudan |
|---|---|
| Cause | Sudanese civil war betweenSudanese Armed Forces andRapid Support Forces |
| Outcome | Persistent connectivity disruptions; humanitarian crisis exacerbation |
TheInternet shutdowns in Sudan refer to a series of nationwide and localised disruptions to internet and telecommunications services inSudan since the onset of thecivil war in April 2023 between theSudanese Armed Forces (SAF) and theRapid Support Forces (RSF).[1][2] In November 2025, Sudan recorded at least four major shutdowns in the year, contributing to its status as one of Africa's most disrupted digital environments.[3][4]
Sudan's telecommunications sector, which relied on three major providers (Zain Sudan, Sudani, and MTN Sudan), has been repeatedly targeted amid the conflict. Both SAF and RSF have destroyed fibre optic cables and telecom towers to hinder enemy communications and civilian coordination.[5][6] Also, there have been pre-war precedents which include a 37-day nationwide blackout in 2019 during protests and a 25-day cut in 2021.[7]
A year-long blackout inWad Madani (Gezira State), imposed after RSF capture in December 2023, was partially lifted in January 2025 when the SAF recapture the city.[8][9][10] However, intermittent service persisted due to RSF control and high costs for satellite alternatives likeStarlink[11]
On 25 July 2025, the Sudanese Telecommunications and Post Regulatory Authority (TPRA) suspendedWhatsApp voice and video calls nationwide, citing "security concerns." Text and group messaging remained operational, butAccessNow has reported that the ban isolated civilians, disrupted health information for women and girls, and hindered gender-based violence reporting.[12][1]
Four mobile internet shutdowns occurred during university exams from 7–10 July 2025 with each lasting for about three hours.[3] By late September, fibre optic disruptions halted travel bookings, education platforms, and business operations, which also affected fixed and mobile lines alike.[13]
A two-day nationwideStarlink blackout began on 8–9 November 2025, amid intensified fighting in Kordofan and Fasher. Authorities restored access on 9 November, enabling contact with expatriates and aid coordination. Starlink, introduced in 2024, has become vital but faces black market pricing and RSF exploitation.[14]