Ports of Sudan: Privatization and Workers

Introduction Established in 1909, Port Sudan is the largest seaport in Sudan and a vital access point for land-locked neighbors like Ethiopia, Chad, and South Sudan. It consists of seven sub-ports handling everything from containers and petroleum to livestock and passengers. The port is the primary source of income for the Red Sea State, especially following the failure of local agriculture and the closure of textile and tire factories.

Types of Employment

1. Permanent Employment: Approximately 5,000 workers in stable roles (accountants, drivers, etc.).
2. Temporary Employment: About 2,000 workers, some serving for up to 12 years without promotion or benefits like health insurance and pensions.
3. Loading and Unloading (Kalat): Over 30,000 workers organized into "Kalat" (groups). This system is based on solidarity, where work is shared among tribal and ethnic groups to ensure as many people as possible earn a living.

Conflict over Cooperative Societies Since the 1960s, cooperative societies have represented Kalat workers. However, in 2017, the Governor of Red Sea State proposed replacing these societies with private companies. Workers and activists view this as a precursor to privatization. In April 2018, the Governor dissolved the societies, sparking violent resistance and a full strike by workers who argued the Governor lacked the legal jurisdiction to do so.

Privatization Steps The Sudanese government has moved toward privatization without adequate study of the impact on workers. Management of the container terminal was previously granted to a Philippine company (I.C.T.S), and more recently, agreements were made with Qatar to develop the Suakin port.

Implications for Workers

• Job Insecurity: Companies can easily cut temporary positions.
• Loss of the Kalat System: Private firms are unlikely to honor the traditional work-sharing system.
• Automation: Modern machinery may replace manual labor to maximize profit.
• Loss of Social Services: The Seaport Authority currently manages hospitals and schools that private companies may not maintain.
• Security Risks: Mass unemployment could lead to significant social unrest in the state.

Recommendations

• Review and absorb qualified temporary workers into permanent positions.
• Oppose the 2017 draft Authority of Sea Ports Act, which facilitates the dismissal of employees.
• Conduct thorough studies on the future of loading and unloading workers.
• Provide retirement pensions for elderly workers and training for younger workers in modern machinery.
• Review the management of cooperative societies to ensure they are not exploiting workers.