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Sudan's War Fuels Meth Crisis Amidst Hospital Ruins
9 Mar
Summary
- Drug addiction, particularly methamphetamine, has surged among young Sudanese since the war began.
- The Al-Tijani Al-Mahi Hospital, severely damaged by war, is providing free addiction treatment.
- Despite immense challenges, the hospital aims to rebuild and meet international standards.
Two years into Sudan's civil war, a severe drug addiction crisis, primarily involving methamphetamine, has emerged, disproportionately affecting young adults. Rafeeda Abubakr's family is one example, seeking rehabilitation for her son Muaz, whose addiction worsened during their displacement.
Amidst a drastic humanitarian crisis and collapsed healthcare system, the Al-Tijani Al-Mahi Hospital, a historic psychiatric facility, has reopened despite extensive war damage. The hospital's War Patients Initiative, launched in November 2025, offers free treatment for war-affected individuals, including those with trauma and addiction.
Director Dr. Mai Mohamed Youssef led the effort to reverse a demolition order and began restoring the hospital with a small volunteer team. Operating on solar power, the hospital currently sees 60-70 patients daily, many returning from displacement with addictions.
The World Health Organization reports that 38 percent of Sudan's health facilities are non-functional, with immense gaps in mental health services. However, societal stigma around psychiatric help is decreasing as traditional methods prove ineffective.
The hospital plans to resume inpatient care within three months and aims to expand services, including a dedicated addiction research center, striving to meet international standards despite ongoing challenges.
