Print Journalism in Sudan: A Struggle for Survival Amid Crises and an Uncertain Future After the War
Sudanese Media Forum
Khartoum, May 4, 2025 (Ilamiyat Network) – For over a century, printed newspapers in Sudan have played a pivotal role in shaping public opinion and echoing the peoples voices on various issues. They have also served as vital platforms for disseminating facts and providing readers with accurate information. Newspaper stands became iconic landmarks across Sudanese cities, acting as gathering spots for readers and fans of daily publications.
However, this landscape began to shift notably even before the outbreak of the recent war, particularly during the era of the "former regime." Many newspaper kiosks were dismantled, and a systematic clampdown on the press was enforced by increasing taxes and customs on printing inputs, imposing daily censorship, and enacting restrictive laws that curtailed press freedom. As a result, newspaper production became extremely costly compared to its revenue, leading to significantly higher prices and a sharp drop in circulation. When war broke out in April 2023, all print newspapers in Sudan ceased publication for the first time in their 120-year history.
Amid this dire situation, the war has further darkened the outlook for print journalism and journalists, raising legitimate questions about the future of the “fourth estate” once the conflict ends: Has the war sounded the death knell for print journalism, or can it endure and recover to fulfill its essential role?
Perspectives on the Pre-War Media Landscape
Journalist and media officer of the “Women Against Oppression Initiative,” Ehsan Abdelaziz, believes that the media in Sudan generally suffered from a lack of independence and intense censorship even before the war. She notes that the December Revolution brought about a margin of press freedom, but this quickly dissipated after the October 25, 2021 coup, which reinstated censorship akin to the “former regime” era. Ehsan adds that print newspapers were the hardest hit among all media outlets: certain content was deleted before publication, and entire newspapers were sometimes confiscated post-printing for containing material displeasing to the authorities.
Journalist and human rights activist Awatif Ishaq agrees, stating that the suppression of the press drove readers toward digital journalism. She explains that even before the war, print newspapers struggled due to high production costs and ownership by private, profit-driven companies, leading to continuous price hikes. Consequently, many readers turned to social media and digital platforms, which strongly competed with print newspapers—prompting some outlets to launch online editions alongside their printed versions.
Journalist and activist Mashair Ramadan attributes the decline in newspaper distribution to the numerous restrictions imposed on them. “Before the war, newspapers faced major challenges—legal, security-related, and economic. Yet, journalists continued their work with dedication,” she said.
The Impact of War on Print Journalism
The war has had a devastating and direct impact on the future of print newspapers, amplifying threats that may hinder their revival post-conflict. Ehsan Abdelaziz believes that the war paved the way for the dominant voices of the warring factions, saying: “The war had a significant impact on the media overall, and on print journalism in particular. The only voice left is the official propaganda—full of lies, lacking credibility, and distorting the realities on the ground.”
Awatif Ishaq agrees, calling the war’s impact catastrophic for journalists and the press, especially since the majority of media institutions were headquartered in the capital, Khartoum. “From day one of the war, all print newspapers stopped publishing, as over 90% of media institutions were based in Khartoum,” she said. The cessation displaced hundreds of journalists, many of whom lost their jobs or were forced to relocate to safer regions or abroad.
Media researcher and analyst Fadel Nour outlines several critical effects of the war on print journalism: printing presses halted, the import of essential printing materials (paper, ink) was interrupted, electricity supply became unreliable, and insecurity rendered newspaper distribution impossible. Advertising and sales also nearly vanished due to the deteriorating security conditions, and on-the-ground coverage became too dangerous to carry out.
Despite this grim reality, Mashair Ramadan views the halt in newspaper publication as temporary, asserting that Sudanese society cannot do without the core role of print journalism. “Print journalism is deeply rooted in the Sudanese social fabric. People were used to starting their day by buying and reading the newspaper. Readers would flock to kiosks and bookstores to grab their favorite publication,” she explained. She added that print journalism remains a major source of employment and income for journalists and media workers, and plays a vital role in shaping public opinion and informing the public about key issues and events.
Is There Hope for the Return of Print Journalism After the War?
Fadel Nour believes that the chances of daily newspapers returning post-war are slim in the short term. He predicts that if they do return, it will likely be in weekly or bi-monthly formats. He emphasizes that the revival of print journalism—or even the return of “exiled journalism” to Sudan—depends largely on how the war ends and its outcomes. A return would require an environment of press and civil freedoms, as well as a degree of political and economic stability.
Awatif Ishaq points out that newspaper circulation was already in decline before the war due to rising prices, which altered readers’ habits and pushed them toward digital media. “Sudans economy has now collapsed catastrophically, which will definitely affect institutions’ ability to produce newspapers. Media organizations, printing companies, and presses have been destroyed or looted. Rebuilding or restoring them will require massive funding, collaboration, and possibly foreign support,” she said. However, she remains somewhat hopeful, insisting that reviving print journalism demands strong willpower and broad-based support from all relevant stakeholders.
Mashair Ramadan supports this cautious optimism, citing the historic significance of print journalism and the resilience of journalists who, she says, remained committed to their mission despite immense challenges. “We hope the fourth estate will return to its throne after the war, regaining its shine and engaging its readers once again,” she said. She emphasized the importance of having the necessary conditions in place for its return, including: stable internet services, professional journalists, available infrastructure and production tools, and a safe and supportive work environment.
Mashair concludes by stressing that the return of print journalism would create significant employment opportunities in administration, finance, distribution, and more—since newspaper institutions are self-sufficient entities that employ a large number of workers. She underscores that a professional and independent print press necessitates a legal state governed by institutions that uphold and implement the rule of law, and ensure journalists’ protection in the line of duty.
This news report was prepared by the I’lamiyat Network and published through the Sudanese Media Forum institutions to mark World Press Freedom Day, highlighting the condition of journalism and journalists in Sudan.
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