The city of Khartoum, once a vibrant hub in Sudan, has been left in ruins following a brutal conflict that erupted in April 2023. The fighting began between the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) and the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) as they vied for control of the capital. This turmoil has forced millions to flee their homes in search of safety.
The violence has taken a staggering toll, with reports indicating that at least 61,000 people have died in Khartoum state due to the fighting and dire living conditions. Many more have been injured, and countless others remain unaccounted for.
After nearly two years of occupation, the RSF abandoned Khartoum, taking with them looted treasures as the army regained control. The streets are now eerily quiet, lined with damaged buildings and empty storefronts. The once-bustling neighborhoods are now skeletal, marked by charred remains and the haunting silence of displacement.
The devastation is profound. Families returning to their homes face a grim reality—a game of chance to see if their houses still stand or have been destroyed. Many homes have been looted and vandalized, while some still bear the marks of conflict, with bullet holes and signs of fire damage.
Among those returning is Yousra Elbagir, who revisited her family home to find it stripped of its former life. Where there were once lush gardens and happy gatherings, she now sees overgrown weeds and remnants of destruction. The home, which held years of memories, is now a shell, with furniture and personal belongings taken or destroyed.
Despite the wreckage, Yousra found fragments of her past—a family photo album, a rocking chair, and even her university certificate. These remnants serve as a reminder of the life that once thrived in her home.
The emotional toll of this conflict is immense. Families like Yousra’s are left to grapple with the loss of their homes and the memories tied to them. Yet, amid the destruction, there is a glimmer of hope. The spirit of the Sudanese people, known for their warmth and hospitality, remains unbroken.
As the community begins to assess the damage and rebuild, the resilience of those affected will be crucial. The path to recovery will be long, but the enduring bonds of family and community offer a foundation for healing and renewal in a city that has seen so much suffering.