1. Sudan is home to more pyramids than Egypt
Many people associate pyramids with Egypt, but did you know that Sudan actually has more pyramids? These pyramids were built by the rulers of the ancient Kushite kingdoms. The Sudanese city of Meroe is home to more than two hundred pyramids, which is twice the number of those you can find in Egypt!
2. Sudan has a long-standing tradition of hospitality
In Sudan, hospitality is a cherished tradition. Guests are seen as a blessing and are treated with the highest level of respect. The local tea, known as "chai", is commonly served to guests in beautifully decorated glasses along with a platter of Sudanese delicacies.
3. Sudan’s "whistling thorn acacia" trees serve as home to stinging ants
You wouldn't want to stand too close to the Whistling Thorn Acacia tree in Sudan. These trees have large bulbous thorns that provide shelter for fierce stinging ants. The thorns produce a whistling sound when the wind blows, hence the name "whistling thorn acacia".
4. Sudan is a multilingual country
Did you know that there are more than 100 languages spoken in Sudan? The most widely spoken language in the country is Arabic, followed by regional languages such as Beja, Fur, and Nubian, among others. English is also taught in schools and is used in some official settings.
5. Sudan’s Sudd marshland is one of the world's largest
Sudan’s Sudd marshland, formed by the White Nile, is among the largest freshwater wetlands in the world. It supports a diverse range of wildlife and can expand to a size larger than Spain during the rainy season.
6. Sudan is home to the world's longest-running civil war
Sudan holds the unfortunate title of having the world's longest-running civil war. The war, which began in 1955 and created tremendous human suffering, led to the separation of Sudan and South Sudan in 2011.
7. Many Sudanese choose to live near the Nile
More than 70% of Sudan's population reside near the Nile Rivers as it provides water, a crucial resource for their livelihoods, including farming and fishing.
8. Sudan contains the world's largest collection of archaeological sites
This country is rich in history, with archaeological sites dating back thousands of years. Sudan has more than 200 ancient pyramids and other historical sites like the Kingdom of Kush, temples, and palaces.
9. Sudan has a unique sport named 'Nuba wrestling'
Nuba wrestling is a traditional Sudanese sport where the goal is not to pin your opponent but to throw him to the ground. The sport forms an integral part of festivals and often highlights social gatherings.
10. Half of Sudan's population is under the age of 18
A startling half of Sudan’s population is under 18 years of age, making it one of the countries with the youngest demographics in the world.
11. Sudan has the largest dress in the world
Sudan holds the world record for creating the largest dress. The dress, made in 2002, measures 110 feet high and 130 feet wide.
12. Sudan's "Giraffes of the Desert" has become endangered
The nation once had numerous "desert giraffes," but such species are now critically endangered due to hunting and habitat loss. Also known as Nubian Giraffes, they are notable for their unique and distinguished markings.
13. Sudan celebrated New Year's Day on July 1 until 1956
Before gaining its independence in 1956, Sudan, following its African heritage, celebrated its New Year's Day on July 1.
14. Sudan's economy majorly depends on oil
Sudan's economy greatly depends on oil production, which contributes approximately 60% of its GDP. However, much of the oil reserves ended up in South Sudan after it declared independence.
15. Sudan has one of the hottest places on Earth
Wadi Halfa, a city in Northern Sudan, is known for its unbearable heat, making it one of the hottest places on the planet. Temperatures can reach up to 53 degrees Celsius.
16. Sudan's anthem changes with every regime
Interesting to note, but Sudan alters its national anthem every time the government changes!
17. Sudan contains unique wildlife
Sudan is home to a wide variety of unique wildlife, including leopards, cheetahs, hyenas, and dozens of bird species which you can find in Dinder National Park and Radom National Park.
18. Sudan's fertile land for agriculture
Sudan's fertile lands, particularly around the Nile, are well-suited for agricultural activities. Products like cotton, peanuts, sesame, and wheat are among the country's most significant exports.
19. Sudanese people have a unique greeting
In Sudan, a typical greeting among friends or family is not just saying hello, but also asking about one’s health, family, work, and more to express genuine concern and well-wishing.
20. Sudan has one of the oldest universities in the world
The University of Al-Karaouine, founded in 859 AD, is often considered the oldest existing university in the world. Despite being located in modern-day Morocco, it was established by a woman from Sudan named Fatima al-Fihri.