Sudanese Artists Bear the Brunt of War in New Report 

A joint report by the African Center for Peace and Justice Studies (ACJPS) and the Sudanese Music Research Center titled Tears of Guitars and Screams of Museums sheds light on the harrowing experiences of Sudanese artists amidst the ongoing armed conflict between the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) and the Rapid Support Forces (RSF). Covering the period from April 2023 to September 2024, the report documents human rights violations against artists, dramatists, and musicians, alongside the devastation wrought on Sudan’s cultural landmarks.

The conflict has claimed the lives of over 55 artists through shelling, shootings, and torture. Among the victims was Asia Abdelmajid, Sudan’s first female theatrical actress, who was tragically killed during a shooting in Bahri in May 2024. In Omdurman, poet and composer Abbas Awad Jebriel lost his life in September 2023 after a shell struck his neighborhood. Violinist Abdulwahid Abdultam, a member of the Abu Arky Al-Bakhit band, also perished in July 2023, reflecting the relentless toll on the country’s cultural icons.

Sudan’s cultural heritage has not been spared. The Sudan National Museum faced desecration when RSF members were filmed wearing historical masks, with artifacts left scattered and damaged. The Al Nahda Cultural Club in El-Fashir, a vital community and cultural hub since 1976, was destroyed in a bombing in September 2024, depriving displaced civilians of a critical sanctuary. The Museum of Natural History was shelled, resulting in the loss of invaluable specimens and exhibits.

Amidst this devastation, some artists have risen as voices for peace. Singer Nancy Ajaj used her platform during a concert in the UAE to call for an end to the violence, while musician Abu Arky Al-Bakhit chose to remain in conflict-ridden Omdurman, resisting attempts by warring factions to exploit his influence. Filmmaker and musician Castro launched initiatives to combat hate speech and promote peace, organizing workshops and collaborating with international artists to foster unity.

However, the conflict has also polarized the artistic community. Some artists aligned themselves with the SAF or RSF, using their works for propaganda. For example, singer Nada Al-Qal’a produced songs supporting the SAF, while poetesses in Darfur praised the RSF, underscoring the complex role of creatives in a deeply divided society.

The report calls for urgent measures to protect Sudan’s cultural heritage and its artistic community. It urges conflicting parties to respect international laws safeguarding civilians and cultural property, and it appeals to organizations like UNESCO to provide safe spaces for displaced artists to continue their work.

In the midst of war, Sudanese artists stand as symbols of resilience and hope, advocating for peace and preserving their nation’s cultural identity. Yet, the survival of these creatives and the safeguarding of Sudan’s heritage demand immediate global attention and action.

Here are some of the notable artists highlighted:

Advocates for Peace

1. Abu Arky Al-Bakhit, a musician, refused to be manipulated by warring factions, staying in Omdurman despite the risks. His music, including the song “It Must Stop,” has become a voice for peace.
2. Nancy Ajaj, a singer, called for an end to violence during a concert in the UAE.
3. Professor Al-Fateh Hussein, a renowned musician and academic, condemned the conflict.
4.  Youssef Al-Mawsili organized peace concerts in Saudi Arabia and Germany.
5. Castro (Hamza Adam), a filmmaker and musician, actively combated hate speech, organized workshops, and collaborated with international artists to promote peace.
6. Zainab Adam, a physically disabled artist, advocated for peace through her performances at refugee events in Uganda.
7. Shamat Muhammad Nour, a singer, participated in peace-promoting events in Egypt.
8. Mona Majdy Salim, a musician, held peace concerts in South Sudan, Uganda, and Egypt.
9. Halima Sasa, a poetess (Hakkama), composed the song *Al-Mirram* to support stopping the war.
10. Amal Nour El Hoda, a vocal coach and member of prominent musical groups, actively opposed the war.

Victims of the Conflict

1. Asia Abdelmajid, Sudan’s first female theatrical actress, was killed in May 2024.
2. Abbas Awad Jebriel, poet and composer, was killed in Omdurman in September 2023.
3. Abdulwahid Abdultam, violinist of the Abu Arky Al-Bakhit band, was killed in July 2023.
4. Hamdan Azraq, a figurative artist, was killed by shelling in Omdurman.
5. Rif’at Al-Daw (Kota), a conga player, was killed in February 2024.
6. Muhammad Al-Nour Al-Ghali Ezz El Din, a singer, was killed in his home during artillery shelling in Nyala, South Darfur.
7. Muhammad Khatir Daoud, a pianist and recent graduate, was killed in August 2023.

Groups and Troupes

1. Aqd El Galad Band actively opposed the war through their music, with performances in Egypt and other regions.
2. Kampala Peace Choir promoted peace through their performances.

Artists Supporting the Warring Factions

1. Nada Al-Qal’a, a singer, produced works supporting the SAF, including the song “Akhbar Sinja.”
2. Aziza Rabak released “La Tafawud (No Negotiations)” to support the SAF.
3. Adam Hamouda, a singer, switched sides to support the RSF, releasing songs like “Daama Dail Jaghimko Haar.”

Download the report here.