Amid the ongoing crises plaguing Sudan, the initiative 'Fakka Riq' launched by journalist Osman Al-Jundi has transformed from a simple idea into a model of community solidarity. With the war nearing its third year, Al-Jundi began serving tea and 'zalabia' to residents of the Hattana neighborhood north of Omdurman, helping them cope with market closures and loss of income sources.
Over time, the initiative evolved to support dozens of families. Al-Jundi expressed concerns about the project's sustainability due to a lack of funding. However, the solidarity and social cohesion among Sudanese people changed the course of the initiative, transforming it from a simple meal into eight takiyas that benefited thousands.
Event Details
The takiyas did not limit themselves to providing breakfast and lunch; they expanded to include clothing, medicine, and other support projects, backed by governmental and private institutions as well as contributions from the local community. As life began to return to normal in Khartoum, the number of takiyas decreased from eight to three, with support now directed towards distributing monthly supplies to widows and orphans.
Al-Jundi noted that the food culture of Sudanese people played a crucial role in their resilience, as bilila and lentils became staple meals during the war. Additionally, the strength of social cohesion prevented the widespread emergence of displacement camps, alleviating the war's burden on citizens.
Background & Context
The takiyas are part of a broader social phenomenon in Sudan, where individuals and groups have launched voluntary initiatives to mitigate the war's impact. Lawyer Suhainda Abdel Wahab, for instance, managed to raise over 100 million Sudanese pounds during the last Eid al-Fitr to provide clothing for orphans, utilizing social media to promote her initiatives.
Suhainda continues to provide support through distributing Ramadan baskets and supplying intravenous solutions, reflecting the spirit of cooperation and solidarity within the Sudanese community. Despite a recent decline in her activity, she remains active in facing new challenges.
Impact & Consequences
The 'King of Smiles' initiative, launched by the activist known as 'Rizqa', provides food and clothing to those in need in the Um Badda area, receiving significant support from both inside and outside Sudan. These initiatives reflect the community's ability to adapt to difficult circumstances, as residents of the Shambat neighborhood relied on takiyas during the siege.
Sayed Al-Siraj Obeid from the 'Takiyat Al-Mahas' confirmed that the area used to host six takiyas, offering food, water, and treatment for the sick. With life returning to normal, the role of takiyas is expected to diminish, but their impact remains evident in supporting the community during crises.
Regional Significance
The experience of takiyas in Sudan serves as a model for social solidarity, demonstrating communities' ability to confront crises through cooperation and mutual support. This phenomenon underscores the importance of social ties in enhancing resilience, which could serve as a lesson for other countries facing similar challenges.
In conclusion, the takiyas remain a symbol of popular solidarity in Sudan, as they have not only been initiatives to feed the needy but have also formed a social safety net that has protected thousands of families, highlighting the community's capacity to withstand the harshest crises when united.