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The dream of a new Sudan shattered by war

DUBAI: Lawyer Omar Ushari’s dream of a better Sudan was crushed as much of the capital lies in ruins after a year of war between rival generals. Ushari, who celebrated behind bars when President Omar Bashir was overthrown in 2019, had hoped for a transition to civilian rule. He opened a literary cafe named Rateena, which became a safe haven for young activists.

However, on April 15 last year, the Sudanese army and paramilitary forces went to war, destroying Ushari’s project and his dreams for the country. The war has now entered its second year, with thousands dead and millions displaced.

The ousting of Bashir in 2019 had brought hope and vibrancy to young Sudanese, with startups emerging across the country to address real needs. But the civilian-led transition was cut short in October 2021 when the generals ousted civilians from power.

Despite the devastation, Sudanese entrepreneurs have not given up. They have redirected their efforts towards crowd-sourcing safety updates and coordinating aid in displacement centers. The dream of a new Sudan still burns bright in the hearts of many, with the belief that they will rebuild their country, no matter the challenges they face.

As Ushari reflects on the destruction of Rateena, he remains hopeful for the future of Sudan. “Sudan is ours, it’s all of ours,” says communications expert Raghdan Orsud. The resilience of the Sudanese people shines through as they continue to strive for a better tomorrow, despite the obstacles in their path.