Sudan’s largest oil refinery is now a charred ruin, engulfed in flames as fighting between rival factions escalates.
Satellite images from January 24 show the al-Jaili refinery, located 60 kilometers north of Khartoum, belching thick black smoke, a stark reminder of the country’s worsening civil war. The destruction of this facility could have dire economic and environmental consequences for the war-torn nation.
“This hateful behavior reveals the extent of the criminality and decadence of this militia,” said a statement from Sudan’s military, accusing the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) of deliberately setting the refinery ablaze. However, the RSF alleged that Sudanese military aircraft dropped barrel bombs, igniting the fire. Neither side has provided evidence to support these claims.
Economic Fallout Looms
The refinery, capable of processing 100,000 barrels of oil daily, played a critical role in sustaining Sudan’s economy. Analysts warn that its destruction could force the country to rely on costly fuel imports, exacerbating financial woes.
“The destruction of the refinery would force Sudanese people to rely on more expensive fuel imports,” warned Timothy Liptrot from the Small Arms Survey. “This war is eroding Sudan’s infrastructure with potentially permanent damage.”
Satellite images captured by Planet Labs PBC revealed widespread damage, with flames consuming storage tanks and plumes of smoke spreading toward Khartoum. Health experts caution that prolonged exposure to the toxic fumes could worsen respiratory conditions and elevate cancer risks for those in the area.
A Civil War Spiraling Out of Control
The refinery’s capture has been a strategic goal for forces loyal to Gen. Abdel-Fattah Burhan, Sudan’s military chief, as they battle the RSF, led by Gen. Mohammed Hamdan Dagalo. The conflict, which began in April 2023, has killed over 28,000 people and displaced millions, plunging the nation into chaos.
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Despite international efforts to mediate, the fighting has only intensified. United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres has expressed “great concern” over the attack on the refinery, warning of the “serious economic and environmental implications” for Sudan and the region.
A Fragile Past, a Bleak Future
The al-Jaili refinery holds historical significance. Built during Sudan’s oil boom, it symbolized economic progress in a country struggling with decades of instability. However, its fate reflects the nation’s precarious present.
China, Sudan’s largest trading partner before the conflict, has remained silent on the destruction of the refinery, despite its historical involvement in Sudan’s oil industry. The refinery, co-owned by Sudan’s government and the state-run China National Petroleum Corporation, was previously a key player in Sudan’s energy sector.
Humanitarian Crisis Deepens
As flames engulfed the refinery, Sudanese families continued their fight for survival. Famine has reached parts of the country, forcing many to resort to eating grass. The ongoing conflict has devastated infrastructure, with hospitals, schools, and markets targeted in attacks.
“The RSF and Sudanese military are both complicit in eroding Sudan’s future,” said Liptrot, emphasizing the need for a resolution to halt further destruction.
As the civil war grinds on, the al-Jaili refinery stands as a symbol of what Sudan risks losing—a future of economic stability and hope.
