Heritage and conflict in Sudan

The rich history of Sudan was directly challenged in the recent hostilities in the nation.

In this talk, one of Australia’s experts in the archaeology of the region will outline damage and looting to sites and the National Museum as well as current efforts to preserve and record material that has survived the crisis.

From the ancient civilization of Kush, to medieval Christian kingdoms and Islamic Sultanates, Sudan exhibits some of the most unique and dynamic history in the world, a cultural and geographic bridge between the Middle East and sub-Saharan Africa. Much of this unique heritage is show-cased in the signature collection of the country, the Sudan National Museum, while smaller provincial collections house important local histories. Together, this heritage of Sudan tells an instrumental story of cultural, climatic, and ideological change, from the deserts of Darfur to the fertile reaches of the Nile.

Since the outbreak of hostilities in Sudan in 2023, Sudan has experienced a humanitarian crisis. Less well-known, at least compared to the conflicts in Syria, Iraq or Afghanistan, are the heritage challenges and threats facing the country as a direct result of this crisis. The Sudan National Museum has been extensively looted and robbed – as have regional museums across the country. This presentation will chronicle the threats to archaeological heritage across the country, and present some of the ongoing remediation and documentation efforts already taking place to improve the situation.

The seminar is part of an ongoing set of public programs hosted by the Museum, examining challenges around heritage management in conflict zones and offering discussions around practical solutions by global experts.