Interview with a Sudanese Photographer on Capturing the Current Conflict

On April 15, 2023, long-standing tensions between the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) and the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) escalated into conflict, leading to a severe humanitarian catastrophe. The war has sadly resulted in the deaths of over half a million children due to famine, coupled with numerous others succumbing to violence and disease. By early 2025, nearly 9 million citizens had been displaced internally, with more than 3.5 million fleeing to other countries.

One individual impacted by this crisis is Mosab Abushama, a photography enthusiast who transitioned into a war documentarian. After moving with his family to a more secure area in Omdurman, he harnessed his camera to portray the brutal realities of the conflict. His powerful photography captured the grim conditions of life in a war-torn area, depicting images from hospitals and burial sites in his visual chronicle.

Upon revisiting his devastated neighborhood a year later, Abushama employed photo collages in his project, *Tadween*, to juxtapose the past with the current realities. Now based in New York while studying at the School of Visual Arts, Abushama’s poignant images challenge the narrow international perspective on African conflicts, calling for equal attention and humanitarian compassion.

In a recent interview, Abushama offered reflections on his experience:

**What initially drew you to photography?**
For me, it began as a pastime. Photography enabled me to seize moments and preserve them, acting as visual records. It grew into a means for observing and articulating experiences that words could not encapsulate.

**Why was it significant for you to document what was unfolding in Sudan?**
I felt compelled to capture the human narrative beyond media and political discourse. By staying back, I intended to showcase our voices and truths during this chaotic period.

**What motivated you to superimpose your images from before and after the war?**
Observing the changes in my neighborhood, I instinctively layered older photographs over the current visuals, making this method a poignant and commemorative act.

**Is there a specific before and after image that holds particular significance for you?**
Yes, a photograph of a once vibrant, now quiet street profoundly affected me, representing our lost happiness, safety, and community.

**Has this process been cathartic or healing for you?**
Indeed, it has offered a means to navigate emotions amidst the desensitization of war, transforming experiences into art and defiance, though it hasn’t led to full healing.

**Your work has raised awareness about Sudan’s crisis. What are your thoughts on international media coverage?**
While I appreciate the recognition, such as the World Press Photo accolade, I am troubled by the insufficient international attention on Sudan. I aspire to shatter this silence.

**What do you hope audiences gain from your work?**
I aim to stir empathy, translating the horrors of war into human narratives and fostering a collective understanding of Sudan’s experience.

**What can external supporters do to aid Sudan?**
Refrain from categorizing it as a civil war to deter further violence. Amplify Sudanese voices, assist local initiatives, and ensure consistent global engagement and solidarity.

**What’s next for you?**
I am pursuing an MFA and broadening *Tadween* into diverse forms to reconsider how narratives of conflict are conveyed, focused on authenticity and impact. You can follow my progress on [Instagram](https://www.instagram.com/_abushama/).

Mosab Abushama’s photography highlights the critical situation in Sudan, urging the global community to actively and continuously engage in efforts to alleviate the suffering.

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