PORT SUDAN, July 22, 2026 (SUNA) – Minister of Infrastructure and Transport Saif Al-Nasr Haroun affirmed the ministry’s commitment to implementing phased solutions and strategic plans to advance infrastructure and transport sectors in Sudan despite funding challenges and the impact of the war. Speaking at a briefing organized by the Ministry of Culture, Information, Antiquities and Tourism through the Sudan News Agency (SUNA) at the Omdurman Cultural Center on Wednesday, the minister said most national roads have exceeded their operational lifespan and require comprehensive rehabilitation. He noted that some roads within the capital fall under the responsibility of the state government, while the ministry contributes to supporting secondary roads in coordination with the state authorities to address existing challenges. Haroun revealed plans to establish a new road network built to international standards through the Build-Operate-Transfer (BOT) partnership system, linking Sudan’s states and extending to neighboring countries. He said the planned projects include roads connecting Wadi Halfa and Al-Jabalain through the western bank of the Nile, as well as export routes that would support trade and boost exports. He added that the new roads will be designed with four lanes and a high load capacity exceeding 100 tons to accommodate heavy transport, noting that the weakness of the current road infrastructure is due to outdated designs that cannot withstand modern freight loads. Regarding railway transport, the minister said the ministry has prioritized the rehabilitation of the railway network to reduce pressure on roads. He announced that maintenance work has begun on railway lines in Al Gezira State, with further rehabilitation planned for the Sennar and Kosti lines as part of a comprehensive plan to revive rail transport. On the aviation sector, Haroun said it had been significantly affected by previous sanctions, particularly regarding access to aircraft spare parts. He revealed plans to modernize the national air fleet, stating: “We aim to introduce 10 new aircraft soon to enhance domestic and international air transport.” The minister also announced arrangements to establish a branch of the Arab Academy for River Navigation in Port Sudan, noting that the project has Arab support. “The site has been selected, and we are working to complete the requirements in preparation for laying the foundation stone soon,” he said. In the area of international cooperation, Haroun revealed an agreement with the Sultanate of Oman to launch a direct maritime route between Salalah Port and Port Sudan starting next August. He also announced arrangements to operate flights through SalamAir, linking Khartoum and Port Sudan with Muscat and Salalah, at a rate of three to four flights per week. He affirmed that these steps represent a major boost for Sudan’s maritime and air transport sectors, strengthening regional connectivity and supporting the national economy.BH/BH