Dongola, Sudan – February 26, 2026 – The North Darfur State Council of Ministers, led by Wali (Governor) Lieutenant General Abdel Rahman Abdel Hamid, convened today to address a range of pressing issues, including a recent outbreak of dengue fever in the Al-Ghariba area of Marawi locality. The meeting underscored the government’s commitment to public health and regional stability amidst ongoing challenges.
The council’s agenda also included discussions on economic development initiatives, plans for the upcoming academic year, and measures to protect the region’s natural resources. This meeting reflects a broader effort by the Sudanese government to address both immediate crises and long-term development goals within the North Darfur State.
Dengue Fever Outbreak in Marawi Locality
According to reports, the North Darfur State government is closely monitoring the situation following the emergence of dengue fever cases in the Al-Ghariba area of Marawi locality. The council received a briefing on the current health status and the efforts being undertaken by relevant authorities to combat the spread of the mosquito-borne illness. State Secretary-General Mahjoub Mohamed Sid Ahmed confirmed that the situation is under continuous surveillance.
Dengue fever, a viral infection transmitted by Aedes mosquitoes, poses a significant public health threat in tropical and subtropical regions. Symptoms typically include high fever, severe headache, muscle and joint pain, rash, and in some cases, potentially life-threatening complications. The World Health Organization (WHO) estimates that approximately half of the world’s population is now at risk of dengue fever.
Economic Development and Local Governance
In addition to the health concerns, the Council of Ministers approved a proposal for the establishment of a fund for local development. This fund is intended to strengthen institutional capacity and support development projects across various localities within the North Darfur State. The initiative signals a commitment to decentralization and empowering local communities to drive their own economic growth.
The council also approved the fourth-quarter performance report for 2025 and endorsed the state’s plan for 2026. The board of directors of the North Darfur Microfinance Company was approved, and the registration of a business name, “Shabab al-Shamal” (Youth of the North), for agricultural and livestock production investment was authorized. This initiative aims to allocate agricultural land to young people in the localities, fostering entrepreneurship and economic opportunity.
Continued Support for Tourism and Education
The Council reaffirmed its commitment to the continued success of the Dongola Capital of Tourism Festival, a key event for promoting cultural heritage and attracting visitors to the region. The meeting also included a review of preparations for the upcoming academic year, ensuring that students have access to quality education.
Protecting Natural Resources
Recognizing the importance of sustainable resource management, the Council issued a directive prohibiting fishing during the breeding season and intensifying efforts to combat illegal fishing practices. This measure is designed to protect the region’s fish stocks and ensure the long-term health of the aquatic ecosystem.
The North Darfur State is rich in natural resources, including fisheries, agricultural land, and mineral deposits. Effective management of these resources is crucial for sustainable development and the well-being of local communities.
Governor Abdel Rahman Abdel Hamid’s Background
Lieutenant General Abdel Rahman Abdel Hamid was appointed Wali of North Darfur State in April 2025, replacing Abdeen Awad Allah. According to reports, he graduated from the 31st class of the War College and specializes in artillery. Prior to his appointment as Wali, he served in various key positions within the Sudanese Armed Forces, including commanding the 19th Infantry Brigade in Marawi from 2012 to 2014. Sources indicate he played a pivotal role in mobilizing forces during periods of regional conflict.
His appointment comes at a critical time for North Darfur State, which has faced significant security and economic challenges in recent years. The previous Wali, Abdeen Awad Allah, faced criticism over deteriorating security conditions, particularly due to the use of drones by the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) to target vital infrastructure such as power plants and the Marawi and Dongola airports.
Challenges and Future Outlook
The security situation in North Darfur remains a major concern. The use of drones by the RSF to target critical infrastructure highlights the ongoing instability and the need for enhanced security measures. The Sudanese government is expected to implement stricter military and security protocols in the region to address these threats.
The establishment of the local development fund and the initiatives to support youth entrepreneurship represent positive steps towards economic recovery and sustainable development. However, the success of these initiatives will depend on effective implementation, transparency, and accountability.
The ongoing efforts to combat dengue fever and protect natural resources demonstrate the government’s commitment to public health and environmental sustainability. Continued investment in healthcare infrastructure, disease surveillance, and environmental protection programs will be essential to address these challenges.
The North Darfur State faces a complex set of challenges, but the recent actions taken by the Council of Ministers demonstrate a commitment to addressing these issues and building a more stable and prosperous future for the region. The coming months will be crucial in determining whether these initiatives can deliver tangible results and improve the lives of the people of North Darfur.
The next key development to watch will be the implementation of the 2026 state plan, with progress reports expected to be presented to the Council of Ministers on a quarterly basis. Readers are encouraged to share their thoughts and perspectives on these developments in the comments section below.