Recently, I have been watching several videos about the ongoing conflict in Sudan. These videos have opened my eyes to the devastating state of Khartoum, a once-vibrant city now reduced to ruins. It is heart-wrenching to witness the struggles of the kind and generous people of Sudan as they fight for basic necessities and try to survive in unimaginable conditions.
Sudan has provided a safe haven for numerous Ethiopian refugees seeking shelter and protection within its borders. The country has demonstrated immense compassion and generosity towards these individuals, including myself, by offering a sense of security and stability amidst turmoil.
One of the main reasons why Sudan deserves recognition for its treatment of Ethiopian refugees is its open-door policy. Unlike many other countries, Sudan has not turned away those in need, but has instead welcomed them with open arms. This is evident in the fact that Sudan currently hosts thousands of refugees from various countries, including Ethiopia, despite being engulfed in a destructive and brutal conflict between the government of General Abdel Fattah al-Burhan and the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) led by General Mohamed Hamdan Dagalo, also known as Hemedti.
Furthermore, Sudan has not only provided refugees with a place to stay, but has also granted access to basic necessities such as food, water, and healthcare through collaboration with global non-governmental organizations. This has been crucial in ensuring the well-being of the refugees, who often flee their homes with nothing but the clothes on their backs. Additionally, Sudan has taken measures to integrate refugees into their society by providing opportunities for employment and self-sufficiency.
Tens of thousands of Ethiopian refugees have also migrated through Sudan to their ultimate destinations, including Canada, the United States, Australia, New Zealand, and various European countries such as Germany, France, and Italy. In these countries, they have been able to establish themselves and pursue opportunities for personal and familial growth. This is why Sudan should be applauded for its role in facilitating the resettlement of Ethiopian refugees.
The Sudanese people are renowned for their kindness and simplicity. They possess a strong sense of generosity and are deeply devoted to their faith, always willing to lend a helping hand to those in need. I recall observing clay water containers filled with clean and fresh water outside homes in certain areas of Khartoum, readily available for any passerby seeking refreshment. In wealthier neighborhoods, water taps were affixed to water coolers instead of clay pots. This is a testament to the compassion of individual citizens, who take it upon themselves to ensure that anyone passing through their community has access to clean, chilled water.
I have a vivid memory of Ramadan, where if we happened to be walking in a particular neighborhood during breakfast time, we would see people eating outside their homes and inviting us to join them. They would say “Alekela etfedelu,” which translates to “please come and join us.” This invitation was extended to both Muslims and Christians alike.
The owners of the grocery stores where we purchased basic items such as bread, cooking oil, gebena, foul, and tahneya (a sugary processed sesame) were incredibly considerate of people’s struggles. They were always willing to allow us to buy supplies on credit and pay them back at a later time. They would kindly say, “gebu leaman taje mera al tane,” which translates to “bring the money when you return next time.”
In Sudanese society, minors, seniors, and women are highly respected. I have personally observed this through the act of male passengers giving up their seats for elderly or female passengers on public transportation. This demonstrates a strong sense of respect and consideration for those who may need assistance. Furthermore, it is important to mention that children are treated with kindness and corporal punishment is rare. Similarly, women are not subjected to physical violence or abuse, which is a positive aspect of the society.
I am deeply grateful for the Sudanese people and have always found them to be incredibly hospitable and compassionate. It saddens me to see them enduring internal conflicts, which have led to unimaginable levels of cruelty and suffering for their citizens. My sincere hope and prayer is that Sudan will once again become a peaceful and prosperous nation, and its kind people can resume their way of life. May God – Allah help Sudan emerge from the quagmire it is currently in.
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