“Mertal: A Vibrant Market Supporting the Local Economy Ahead of Eid al-Fitr”

Mertal area, located approximately 14 kilometers southwest of Tawila in North Darfur, is considered one of the region’s key agricultural areas. It is well known for producing onions and tobacco and plays a vital role in supplying nearby localities such as Tawila, Katur, Derbat, Fanqa, and Dobo.

Agriculture forms the backbone of Mertal’s local economy, with residents relying heavily on it as their primary source of livelihood. The community is largely rural in nature, characterized by a simple way of life and strong social solidarity.

{Sudan Sawa Sawa} captured scenes from inside Mertal market, where commercial activity is notably vibrant and continues to increase as Eid al-Fitr approaches. The market is experiencing growing congestion alongside rising commodity prices—reflecting the mounting cost-of-living challenges faced by residents, while also signaling the market’s vitality and the continuity of economic activity.

Despite these challenges, Mertal remains a model of a productive community that depends on its local resources and contributes to economic stability in its surrounding areas.