Sudan’s Radio-TV archive under threat as fighting nears

February 10, 2024 (PORT SUDAN) – The Sudanese Journalists Syndicate (SJS) issued a grave warning Saturday regarding the potential destruction of a century-old national treasure: radio and television archives stored within their premises in Omdurman.

The warning follows the army’s recapture of neighbourhoods surrounding the facility, raising concerns about an imminent attack on the RSF forces stationed in the big building of Sudan TV, Radio Omdurman and the National Theatre near the River Nile.

The archive holds immense cultural and historical significance, containing audio and video recordings of historical events, cultural and artistic works, musical and literary creations, and speeches by political figures.

“Destroying this archive would be a catastrophic loss for the Sudanese nation, erasing a crucial part of our collective memory,” declares the SJS.

The statement implored national, regional and international organizations like UNESCO to intervene swiftly and prevent the loss of this precious heritage.

The SJS further appeals to all parties involved in the conflict to respect and safeguard this national archive. They emphasize the critical importance of preserving cultural and civilizational heritage, urging every effort to prevent such threats in the future.

Until now, the Sudanese Air Force has avoided bombing the site. However, the escalating conflict poses a real and imminent danger to this irreplaceable collection.

(ST)