Sudan’s Print Journalism: Struggling to Survive Crises and an Uncertain Post-War Future
Source: Al Ayam newspaper for Sudan Media Forum
The Decline of Sudan’s Print Media
For over a century, print newspapers in Sudan played a vital role in shaping public opinion and disseminating information with professionalism. Newsstands were cultural landmarks where readers gathered daily. However, this tradition began deteriorating before the current war, particularly during the former regime’s rule through increased censorship, restrictive laws, and economic pressures that made newspaper production unsustainable.
The April 2023 conflict marked a historic low when print newspapers ceased publication for the first time in 120 years, raising critical questions about the future of print journalism in Sudan.
Pre-War Challenges to Press Freedom
Journalists Speak Out
Ihsan Abdelaziz, a journalist with the Women Against Injustice Initiative, describes how media independence was systematically eroded. While the December revolution briefly expanded press freedoms, the October 2021 coup reinstated harsh censorship, with newspapers frequently facing pre-publication deletions or complete confiscations.
Human rights activist Awatif Ishaq notes how economic pressures and digital competition transformed readership patterns: “High production costs and investment-focused ownership led to price increases, driving readers toward social media and digital platforms.”
The War’s Devastating Impact
The conflict has exacerbated existing challenges, with Khartoum—home to 90% of media organizations—becoming a battleground. Nour, a media researcher, outlines multiple crises:
- Destruction of printing infrastructure
- Disruption of material imports
- Chronic power outages
- Collapse of distribution networks
- Dangerous conditions for field reporting
Despite these obstacles, journalist Ramadan maintains hope, emphasizing print media’s deep cultural roots: “Sudanese society traditionally began each day with newspaper reading. This institution remains vital for information dissemination and employment.”
Prospects for Revival
Experts present cautious outlooks:
Nour predicts any post-war return would likely begin with weekly rather than daily publications, contingent on political stability and press freedom guarantees. Ishaq acknowledges severe economic barriers but emphasizes that revival is possible with sufficient support.
Key requirements for recovery include:
- Stable internet infrastructure
- Professional journalist retention
- Secure workspaces
- Legal protections for press freedom
The report concludes by highlighting print media’s potential to regenerate employment opportunities across multiple sectors if proper conditions are restored.
This report was prepared by Al Ayam newspaper and published through Sudan Media Forum platforms to document journalism’s challenges in Sudan.