Economic Costs of the Conflict in Darfur, Sudan

Dr. Hamid E. Ali, American University in Cairo

While human suffering resulting from the armed conflict in Darfur is immeasurable, the costs can be measured in economic terms. Dr. Hamid Ali from the American University of Cairo is the first to attempt this, and his findings indicate a staggering cost: US$35.11 billion spent by the Government of Sudan between 2003-2009 on the war effort in Darfur. Dr. Ali’s research reveals an alarming misappropriation of Sudan’s meager resources in the government’s efforts to hold onto power at any cost. US$35.11 billion is the equivalent of 233 percent of Sudan’s GDP annually. Meanwhile, the country spent only 1.3 percent of its budget on public health and less than 1 percent on education over the past two decades.

Light lunch will be provided.