Sudan’s Print Journalism: Struggling to Survive Crises and an Uncertain Post-War Future
Prepared by Al Ayam newspaper for Sudan Media Forum
The Decline of Sudan’s Print Media
For over a century, print newspapers in Sudan played a pivotal role in shaping public opinion and disseminating information with professionalism. Newsstands were cultural landmarks where readers gathered daily. However, this tradition began eroding before the 2023 war, as the former regime systematically suppressed press freedoms through censorship, restrictive laws, and economic barriers.
The April 2023 conflict marked the first complete halt in Sudan’s print journalism history – interrupting a 120-year legacy. This crisis raises critical questions: Has war permanently silenced print media, or can it recover its vital democratic role?
Pre-War Press Conditions
Systematic Suppression
Journalist Ihsan Abdelaziz describes how media independence dwindled under increasing censorship. While the 2019 December Revolution briefly expanded press freedoms, the October 2021 military coup reinstated harsh restrictions. Newspapers faced pre-publication censorship and frequent confiscations of critical content.
Economic Challenges
Activist Awatif Ishaq explains how rising production costs and corporate ownership transformed newspapers into unaffordable luxury items. Many readers migrated to digital platforms, forcing newspapers to establish online presences while maintaining print editions.
The War’s Devastating Impact
The conflict has:
- Concentrated media control with warring factions
- Paralyzed Khartoum-based press institutions (90% of media)
- Displaced hundreds of journalists
- Destroyed printing infrastructure and distribution networks
- Eliminated advertising revenue streams
Researcher Nour notes the compounding effects of power outages, import disruptions, and security risks that make field reporting nearly impossible.
Post-War Prospects
Challenges to Revival
Experts predict:
- Daily print editions may never fully return
- Initial revival likely as weekly/monthly publications
- Requires political stability and press freedom guarantees
- Needs massive financial investment for infrastructure rebuilding
Reasons for Hope
Despite challenges, journalists maintain cautious optimism:
- Print media remains culturally significant in Sudanese society
- Provides crucial employment in journalism and related fields
- Essential for democratic discourse and information dissemination
As Ramadan feelings notes, “The print press is deeply rooted in Sudanese society’s conscience. Readers traditionally started their day with newspapers.”
Conclusion
Sudan’s print journalism faces existential threats but retains cultural and professional value. Its revival depends on ending the conflict, establishing press freedoms, and securing substantial reconstruction support. The international community’s attention to Sudan’s media crisis remains crucial.
This report was prepared by Al Ayam newspaper and published through Sudan Media Forum member platforms to highlight journalism’s challenges in Sudan.
Tags: #PressFreedom #SudanCrisis #JournalismMatters #StandWithSudan