video duration 07 minutes and 45 seconds
On the first day of war in Sudan, Orsham despaired of the direction his country was headed.
But as thousands began fleeing to the eastern city of Port Sudan, more than 500 miles from the battle for Khartoum, he knew he had to help those displaced by the conflict.
“Port Sudan is like a diamond. It’s the only gateway for medical care, aid and travel outside Sudan,” Osham said as he walked through the city’s streets, looking for empty buildings where those fleeing the war might live. “We don’t want anyone to be homeless or without access to food because at the end of the day we are all Sudanese.”
More than a million people have been internally displaced since fighting broke out in Khartoum two months ago between the country’s army and a paramilitary group known as the Rapid Support Forces. Of those who have fled their homes, many have found refuge in Port Sudan, the main seaport on the Red Sea coast, which has become one of the main routes out of the country.
As the international community struggles to find a diplomatic solution and aid organizations cease operations, local and online civic solidarity has emerged, turning Port Sudan into a safe haven for people across the country. Residents like Osham and volunteers from Red Sea Emergency Initiative are working tirelessly to help those trapped in Khartoum escape the fighting, converting empty spaces like classrooms into temporary shelters, and setting up community kitchens and Makeshift medical clinic.
“War is a curse. There is no life without peace. … We will continue to do what we can to help our brothers,” Osham said.
As war continues to tear families apart, our film reveals the lives and motivations of people who unite in the face of tragedy.
credit:
Executive Producer: Tierney Bonini
Director/Producer: Mohammad Fawi
Producer: Antonia Perello
Production Manager: Mohamed Nemary
Cinematographer: Ahmed Mohamed Satti
Drone Operator: Satti Mohamed Satti
Editors: Ahmed Mohamed Satti, Antonia Perello, Catherine Hallinan
Senior Editor: Donald Cameron
