French Archaeologists Race to Preserve Sudan's Heritage Amid Ongoing War
As Sudan's civil war enters its fourth year, the conflict has taken a heavy toll on both human lives and the nation's rich cultural heritage. Thousands have been killed and millions displaced, according to reports from multiple sources. Amid the chaos, French archaeologists and institutions are stepping up efforts to safeguard Sudan's archaeological treasures from looting, vandalism, and destruction.
Marie Millet, head of the Louvre Museum's Department of Egyptian Antiquities, described Sudan as "a country with an exceptionally rich heritage." In interviews with RFI, she expressed deep concern over the impact of more than three years of war on museums and archaeological sites, which have increasingly fallen victim to vandalism and looting. The Sudan National Museum has reportedly been looted, with around 4,000 items stolen and some trafficked abroad, according to accounts cited by RFI.
International organizations are now intensifying their work to protect a heritage that Millet says is important not just for Sudanese people, but for humanity as a whole. France has a long history of collaboration with Sudan in the heritage sphere, from exploration to research grants, funding, and logistical support. The Louvre is among several bodies involved in educational projects aimed at inspiring the next generation to become guardians of their own history.
One innovative initiative is the development of "educational briefcases" containing life-sized replicas of significant artifacts, made in Paris using 3D printing technology. These replicas are designed to be used in schools and communities, allowing people to engage with their cultural heritage even if the originals are damaged, destroyed, or in exile. Millet emphasized the importance of education in preservation efforts, stating, "Understanding the importance of preserving this heritage should start in schools."
She further explained that studying Sudan's history "helps us better understand all of antiquity" and connects two worlds: "Mediterranean antiquity and African antiquity, which is rarely discussed, but which truly exists." Millet believes that fostering a connection to history is vital for social cohesion, saying, "This is the only way to preserve memory and to understand that we are all truly part of a history. There's less division when people understand that history belongs to everyone."
The conflict, which pits the Sudanese Armed Forces against the Rapid Support Forces, has created a perilous environment for cultural sites. Some reports indicate that displaced populations have sought refuge in the north and have used archaeological sites for new housing and agriculture, posing additional risks to preservation. While this claim has been reported by a single source and not independently verified, it underscores the complex challenges facing heritage protection during wartime.
Despite the dire circumstances, there is a sense of urgency and determination among those working to save Sudan's heritage. The collaborative efforts between French institutions and Sudanese partners highlight a shared commitment to preserving cultural identity in the face of adversity. As Millet noted, heritage is a bridge that connects people to their past and to each other, making its protection a matter of global significance.