Sudan war financing evades international sanctions
Targeted sanctions by Australia, UK, and UN have failed to stop warring parties from funding their campaigns.
Despite targeted sanctions and travel bans from Australia, the United Kingdom, and a UN Security Council resolution, Sudan's warring factions continue to finance their conflict. Since April 15, 2023, these measures have aimed at commanders, companies, and facilitators, but have not stopped the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) and the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) from exploiting resources for private gain and military campaigns.
Research by the Sudan Transparency and Policy Tracker (STPT) indicates that while sanctions have increased costs and disrupted some financial channels, they have not deprived either side of necessary resources or external relationships. Designated businesses, like the SAF-aligned Red Rock Mining Company, have shifted operations through unsanctioned subsidiaries and new commercial relationships, maintaining a global footprint.
Red Rock Mining Company, facing sanctions from the UK, EU, and Switzerland, has leveraged international corporate vehicles to continue operations, boasting a global presence by late 2025. Similarly, the military-affiliated firm Zadna relies on Egypt-based partnerships and domestic dominance to render Western penalties ineffective, securing lucrative contracts without significant blowback, according to STPT.
Why it mattersBusinesses linked to Sudan's warring factions continue to operate and secure contracts despite international sanctions, allowing conflict financing to persist.