Sudanese men and women gathered in the Ugandan capital, Kampala, for the “Dialogue and Art for Peace” event, organized by the Democratic Media Center. The event brought together artists and Sudanese refugees to discuss the role of art and creativity in supporting peace, countering hate speech, and promoting coexistence.
The event combined music, discussion, and dialogue in an effort to create a space for expression and communication among Sudanese people amid the war and divisions affecting the country. It also highlighted the ability of art to bridge differences and restore shared spaces among communities affected by conflict.
Speaking to Mashaweer, Sudanese refugee in Kampala Majdolin Al-Sayed said, “The event provided a space to express feelings and ideas away from the atmosphere of war and polarization.”
She noted that “art can help Sudanese people restore communication with one another and remember what unites them.”
For his part, Sudanese refugee Ahmed Nour El-Din told Mashaweer that “dialogue among Sudanese people has become more important amid the escalation of hate speech and division.”
He added that “such events allow people to listen to one another and express their views peacefully.”
Meanwhile, Sudanese refugee Ridwan Sharaf El-Din told Mashaweer that “using art and music to talk about peace opens a different path for communication, particularly for Sudanese people living outside the country who carry with them the effects of war and division.”
Participants emphasized the importance of continuing such spaces that bring Sudanese people together through dialogue and art, considering them tools that can help reduce hate speech, promote coexistence, and open discussions about the future of peace in Sudan.
