Fish Diversity Assessment in Khartoum Central Local Fish Market During the Post-war Period

Freshwater fisheries play a vital role in food security, employment generation, and livelihood support in Sudan; however, the recent armed conflict severely disrupted fish production, transportation networks, market operations, and consumer access to fish products. This study assessed fish species diversity, market conditions, and indicators of post-war recovery in the Khartoum Central Local Fish Market, one of the most important fish trading centers in Sudan. A descriptive field-based approach was employed, combining direct market observations with structured interviews involving fish vendors, fishermen, and consumers. Information on fish species composition, supply sources, market activity, fish prices, and product quality was collected and compared with conditions reported during the conflict period. The findings revealed moderate to high fish species diversity within the market, with species of the genus Oreochromis being the most abundant, followed by Clarias spp. and Lates niloticus . Market observations indicated increased fish availability and consumer attendance compared with wartime conditions, while fish prices showed a moderate decline, suggesting gradual stabilization of market dynamics and improved supply. The White Nile and Jebel Aulia Reservoir were identified as the primary post-war sources of fish supply, and sensory quality assessments demonstrated generally acceptable freshness of marketed fish. Despite these positive developments, several challenges remain, particularly unreliable electricity supply, inadequate cold-storage facilities, and limitations in market infrastructure. Overall, the results indicate that the Khartoum Central Local Fish Market is exhibiting clear signs of ecological and commercial recovery following the conflict; however, sustained recovery of the fisheries sector will require targeted investments in infrastructure, cold-chain development, and market support systems to enhance resilience and ensure long-term sustainability in post-conflict urban environments.