A Night of Sudanese Joy and Tears: Cairo Event Celebrates Unity and Heritage

Hundreds of Sudanese expatriates gathered at Cairo’s Russian Cultural Center for an evening that blended joy with nostalgia. Organized by the Sudanese Creativity Salon, the event, titled "Our Unity in Our Diversity," brought together Sudanese, Egyptians, and Russians to celebrate Sudan’s rich cultural heritage, while also reflecting on the ongoing war in Sudan that has displaced so many.

Dressed in traditional attire, Sudanese attendees filled the Tchaikovsky Theater to capacity, with the air alive with the scent of Sudanese coffee and sweets served at the welcoming reception. The evening was hosted by renowned Sudanese media figure Yassin Saad, and it quickly became a night of music, poetry, and a shared longing for peace.

Ahmed Youssef Qarabin, head of the Sudanese Creativity Salon, took the stage to thank Egypt for its hospitality during Sudan’s time of crisis, referring to Egypt as the "second homeland" for Sudanese people. He also thanked the Russian Cultural Center for hosting the event and emphasized the importance of rejecting hate speech while calling for unity and peace in Sudan. "We must stand together to end the war and work toward a peaceful Sudan," Qarabin urged.

Murad Gatin, Director of the Russian Cultural Centers in Egypt, welcomed the Sudanese guests, lauding the deep historical ties between Russia and Sudan. He affirmed Russia’s readiness to continue cultural collaboration with the Sudanese community, emphasizing the importance of cultural exchange as a means of fostering unity.

The event featured stirring performances by Sudanese artist Dafaa Al-Haj and his band, Camerata, who performed traditional Sudanese music and folk songs that encapsulated the diversity and richness of Sudanese culture. The audience was swept up in the melodies, which evoked memories of home for many.

Celebrated Sudanese poet Abdel Qader Al-Katibi recited a series of deeply emotional poems filled with longing and love for Sudan. His words, laden with nostalgia and sorrow for a homeland in turmoil, resonated with the audience, moving many to tears. Theater artist Sayed Abdullah Sousol delivered a powerful theatrical performance, depicting the internal conflict of a nation struggling with division and the destructive forces pulling it apart. His performance was a poignant call for unity and reconciliation.

The night's most touching moment came when Sudanese, Egyptian, and Russian attendees stood together in solidarity. United in their love for Sudan and hope for peace, the audience joined hands, shedding tears of both joy and sorrow. It was a symbolic moment, emphasizing the importance of unity and human connection despite physical distances and the ongoing conflict.

Sherif Gad, Director of Cultural Activities at the Russian Cultural Center, praised the event for its warmth and sense of community. "This celebration reflects the deep and diverse roots of Sudanese culture, brought to life in an atmosphere of mutual respect and togetherness," he said.