In the Country with the World's Worst Displacement Crisis: Sudan (Encore)
Jan 2, 2025
auto_awesome
Emmanuel Akinwotu, NPR's correspondent, shares firsthand insights from Sudan, where violence has uprooted 12 million people. He vividly describes the human toll, focusing on the devastation in Amdurman as residents confront chaos and destruction. Amidst the despair, the resilience of the Sudanese shines through, with inspiring tales of individuals rebuilding their lives and community kitchens emerging to support those affected. Akinwotu captures both the heartbreak and hope in a country grappling with one of the world's worst displacement crises.
The prolonged conflict in Sudan has displaced over 12 million people, creating devastating destruction in major cities and infrastructure.
Amidst the crisis, local initiatives like community kitchens show the resilience and solidarity among Sudanese citizens striving to rebuild their lives.
Deep dives
Devastation and Displacement in Sudan
Sudan is experiencing the world's worst displacement crisis due to prolonged conflict between the Sudanese army and the Rapid Support Forces, leading to over 12 million people fleeing their homes. The war has turned major cities, such as Amdurman and Khartoum, into battle zones, resulting in significant destruction of infrastructure and loss of life. Local residents returning face the daunting task of rebuilding their lives amidst the ruins, with many homes and historic sites, like the Sheikh Garibala Mosque, having been severely damaged or looted. The emotional toll on the community is palpable, as individuals like Abdulrahim, the mosque's imam, recount the pain of loss and the challenge of restarting their lives amid ongoing uncertainty and danger.
Resilience and Community Support
Despite the overwhelming challenges, pockets of resilience are emerging within Sudan as people strive to rebuild their lives. Local initiatives, such as community kitchens run by couples like Samaya Abdul Wahab and Mustafa Ezzeldin, are providing essential support by serving thousands of meals each week. These grassroots efforts highlight the solidarity and compassion present among Sudanese citizens, even in the face of war and economic hardship. As the cost of living skyrockets and humanitarian aid remains scarce, these self-sustained initiatives demonstrate the collective strength and caring nature of the community in their fight for survival and normalcy.
1.
Life Amid Ruins: The Human Cost of Sudan's Displacement Crisis
Fighting between the Sudanese army and a paramilitary group have displaced some 12 million people in one of Africa's biggest countries. In a story we first brought you in October, our correspondent travels to Sudan and gives us a glimpse of the devastation the war has caused.