State of the World from NPR Looking Back: Sudan’s Capital, Ravaged by War
Dec 23, 2025
Explore the harrowing transformation of Khartoum, Sudan, ravaged by a two-year civil war. Discover the emotional reactions as the Sudanese army retakes the city and hopeful returnees celebrate. Hear intimate stories from local journalist Amar Awad, capturing life in the rubble. Delve into the cultural devastation with reports of looted museums and burnt artefacts. Finally, witness the painstaking efforts underway to restore this once-thriving metropolis amidst overwhelming challenges.
AI Snips
Chapters
Transcript
Episode notes
War Defined 2025 Reporting
- The war in Sudan was the standout story of 2025 for NPR's Emmanuel Akinwotu and revealed deep national trauma.
- He observed resilience amid devastation as residents began returning and confronting loss.
Local Reporter Reconnects With Home
- Producer Amar Awad provided intimate access by reconnecting with family and showing reporters local sites, including his destroyed family home.
- Those personal encounters revealed both horrific abuse and community resilience firsthand.
Khartoum's Streets: Life Amid Ruins
- Scenes in Khartoum mixed daily life restarting with stark destruction like reopened tea stands and shattered museums.
- Survivors described torture, starvation, and mass looting that accompanied RSF occupation.