Darfuri marketplaces, such as the El Fasher market in North Darfur, are vibrant, thriving spaces and symbolize the spirit of entrepreneurship and resilience inherent in local communities across this conflict-affected region. 

By Salah Mohammed & Hamid Abdulsalam
 

For communities that rely almost completely on agriculture and livestock produce to generate income, market areas in Darfur are an integral aspect of daily life. The decade-long conflict in the region has resulted in mass displacements and a significant increase in population in areas near major towns across the region. Consequently, demand for necessary items and services in these towns, has escalated significantly. A strong example of this is El Fasher in North Darfur, a town with a population of some 1.2 million people, many of whom live in displaced persons’ camps that have sprung up on the outskirts of the town.
 

The El Fasher market, located in the heart of this busy town in North Darfur, is a place of constant activity, bustling with goods and services and thriving with new business opportunities. Customers throng the stalls, buying a variety of necessary items, and often, stopping for a cup of tea and conversation at one of the many tea stands operated by local ladies.
 

The market is an important commercial trade center, attracting commodities from neighbouring countries such as Chad and Libya. Additionally, it serves as a platform for farmers from surrounding areas within Darfur, such as Jebel Marra, Kutum and Kabkabiya, to sell their produce. 
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