How does the war in Sudan affect you?
‘I am from Omdurman, near the Sudanese capital Khartoum. I moved to Enschede shortly before the war started to study Robotics, but it is still horrific to watch what is happening to my country. My immediate family has not been directly affected, but people in our wider circle have. Many Sudanese here struggle with survivor’s guilt. Why am I fortunate enough to be here while my compatriots face such brutality? Am I doing enough? What more can I do from here?’
What is the aim of the fundraising afternoon?
‘We want to draw attention to the situation, because its severity barely seems to register in Europe. That is made worse by the fact that journalists cannot report safely. Through social media we, as Sudanese, see a lot of what is happening, but the Netherlands knows only a fraction. As the two armies fight each other, people have fled and famine has emerged.
That is why we want to raise money to provide food aid for affected Sudanese. The region of Darfur in the southwest has been hit especially hard. Because of blockades put up by the warring parties, it is extremely difficult to reach.’
What can visitors expect?
‘We want the UT community to get to know Sudanese culture. There will be Sudanese treats and bukhoor, a type of incense we use to give our homes and clothes a pleasant scent. There will also be stands with information about Sudan, our customs and culture, such as dance and music. And, of course, there will be stories from people who have been directly affected.’
How can we be sure the money goes to the right place?
‘Everyone can donate whatever they want via a QR code. We do not have a specific target, anything is welcome. The money will not go to major NGOs, because in our view too much is lost to overhead costs. Instead, we have prepared a proposal with a local charity that can transfer the funds directly to field kitchens on the ground. Through photos and donation trackers, everyone will be able to see where their money is going.’
Fundraiser for Sudan
Who: Enschede Muslim Student Association
What: fundraising market for Sudan
Why: raising awareness and funds
Where: Atrium, Bastille
When: 11 December, 12.00 h to 18.00 h
