Sudan’s Rival Banknotes Harden a Country Split in Two
Sudan's army-aligned central bank has introduced new banknotes, while the Rapid Support Forces continue to circulate older notes in territories they control. The parallel currency systems reflect the de facto division of the country, with the army holding the east and centre and the RSF dominating much of Darfur and the west. Ongoing conflict has driven inflation and left over 30 million people in need of humanitarian aid.
- ▪The army-backed government issued redesigned 1,000-pound notes as part of a new currency rollout.
- ▪In RSF‑held areas, older Sudanese notes remain in circulation under a rival authority.
- ▪Both sides accuse each other of using currency policy to fund the war and restrict cash flow to opposing regions.
- ▪The split monetary system reinforces a dual economy and deepens the political divide within Sudan.
- ▪Three years of fighting have caused rampant inflation and heightened humanitarian needs for more than 30 million people.
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Northern Africa Africa Sudan’s Rival Banknotes Harden a Country Split in Two By Samuel Ncube · June 26, 2026 · 5 min read Daily Brief The morning intel from across Latin America. Free. Subscribe By subscribing you agree to our privacy policy. We never share your email. SUDAN · GEOPOLITICS Key Facts —New money: Sudan’s army-aligned central bank has issued new banknotes, including a redesigned 1,000-pound note. —A rival system: In areas held by the Rapid Support Forces, older notes still circulate under a parallel authority. —Currency as a weapon: Each side accuses the other of using money to wage the war and starve its territory of cash. —A divided nation: The army holds the east and centre; the RSF controls much of Darfur and the west.
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