Sudanese Photojournalist Escapes War-Torn Darfur in Perilous Journey
Mohamed Zakaria, a Sudanese photojournalist, risked his life to escape the war-torn region of Darfur in a harrowing journey that lasted 23 days. Fleeing the escalating violence between the Sudanese army and the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF), Mohamed left behind his camera equipment and embarked on a dangerous trek to reach safety.
Facing indiscriminate shelling, airstrikes, and food shortages in el-Fasher, the capital of North Darfur state, Mohamed decided it was time to flee. With his family already seeking refuge in Chad, he chose to head towards South Sudan and eventually Uganda, hoping for a safer passage.
Mohamed’s journey was fraught with challenges, including passing through numerous checkpoints manned by both the army and the RSF. He had to conceal his identity as a cameraman documenting the war to avoid detection. Despite facing interrogation, threats, and a near-death experience, Mohamed managed to reach South Sudan and eventually Uganda, where he registered as a refugee.
Reflecting on his ordeal, Mohamed expressed relief and gratitude for surviving the treacherous journey. His immediate priority is to reunite with his family and ensure their safety. Looking ahead, he dreams of returning to Sudan in more peaceful times to establish a university in Darfur, teaching filmmaking, photography, and media studies.
Mohamed’s story sheds light on the plight of civilians caught in the crossfire of Sudan’s civil war and the resilience of those who strive to bring attention to the truth of the situation. His courage and determination serve as a testament to the human spirit’s ability to endure and overcome adversity in the face of unimaginable challenges.
