Land conflicts in El Dali, Al Mazmum and Abu Houjar

Introduction The region of El Dali, Al Mazmum, and Abu Houjar in Sennar State has seen escalating land conflicts, culminating in bloody clashes in November 2016. A Central Reserve Police (CRP) force, reportedly funded by agricultural investor Ahmed Kamal Jar Elnabi, engaged in provocative behavior against local nomads and small farmers. This led to an attack on the CRP camp, resulting in the deaths of one resident and 11 police officers.

Historical Roots The conflict dates back to 1957 when the government began allocating large tracts of land to outside investors for mechanized farming without consulting local communities. The dissolution of the Traditional Administration in 1970 further encouraged land grabbing, as there was no longer a local authority to regulate land use. Over 2 million feddan of acacia forests were cleared for large farms.

The Secession of South Sudan The independence of South Sudan forced approximately 60,000 nomadic Rufaa Al Hawye tribespeople to return to their historical lands in Sudan, only to find them occupied by large-scale agricultural projects. Although the Federal Cabinet issued Decision No. 209 in 2013 to resettle these returnees, the Sennar State government hindered its implementation to protect the interests of big business.

Cases of Corruption

• Land Grabbing: Investors like Kamal Jar El Nabi hold far more land than officially registered (e.g., 300,000 feddan vs. 60,000 registered).
• Conflict of Interest: The former Governor of Sennar was found to be a co-owner of the "Usul" agricultural project, which residents had protested.
• Misallocation: Land intended for returnees was instead allocated to security officers, police, and members of the attorney general's office. Local officials (Commissioners, Financial Managers) also appropriated hundreds of feddan for personal use.

Traditional Administration Rivalries The government has refused to recognize the elected leadership of the Rufaa Al Hawye tribes, instead reinstating pro-government chiefs who do not represent the interests of the nomads and small farmers.

Recommendations

• Conduct a thorough review of land ownership and re-allocate land to ensure justice for residents.
• Take legal action against illegal large holdings.
• Implement Federal Cabinet Decision No. 209 under federal, rather than state, supervision.
• Involve local communities in decision-making regarding land investment.