Sudan's Ancient History Under Threat Amid Ongoing Conflict

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The rich historical heritage of Sudan, known for its numerous pyramids and ancient relics, faces unprecedented risks due to a devastating war that has halted tourism and led to widespread looting of cultural treasures. The conflict has intensified, particularly in regions surrounding significant archaeological sites, including the UNESCO heritage site of Meroë.

Sudan is home to more pyramids than any other nation, built by the Nubian civilization that rivaled ancient Egypt. However, tourism has completely collapsed, leaving guides like Abdelmagid struggling to support their families. "We have had no salaries for months," he said, describing the dire economic situation that has left him in debt to provide for his eight children.

In Khartoum, the National Museum of Sudan has become a stronghold for the Rapid Support Forces (RSF), a paramilitary group currently battling the Sudanese army for dominance. Reports indicate that the RSF has looted many cultural artifacts from the museum and sold them off, exacerbating the ongoing erasure of Sudan's rich history.

Historical figures such as the warrior queens known as "Kandakas" highlight the importance of Sudan's past. Once celebrated for their formidable leadership, these queens defended their land and were central to the kingdom's strength. They have recently been re-emphasized in Sudanese culture, particularly following the 2019 revolution against military dictator Omar al Bashir.

Despite the long struggle for recognition and pride in Sudan's storied past, the current conflict threatens to obliterate centuries of heritage, leaving both tangible and intangible elements of the nation's history at risk of being lost forever.

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