Sudan's Lifeline: How One Radio Station Keeps Millions Informed Amid War

As Sudan's conflict rages on, millions depend on a single radio station for news. Radio Dabanga, broadcasting from the Netherlands, is the last independent outlet covering the crisis. With local journalists silenced or displaced, its reports have become a lifeline for families both inside and outside the country.

The conflict between the Sudanese army and the Rapid Support Forces began in 2023. Since then, around 14 million people have fled their homes. Few media organizations now operate inside Sudan, leaving Radio Dabanga as the primary source of information for many.

Over 3,000 miles away in Amsterdam, reporter Elamin Babow works tirelessly to keep the station running. Founded in 2008 by editor-in-chief Kamal Elsadig, the outlet has faced growing financial strain. Funding from USAID, which once covered more than half its budget, has been frozen or cut entirely. As a result, staff numbers and airtime have been reduced.

Sudanese sisters Maaza and Amany Altareeh, now living in the Netherlands, depend on Radio Dabanga for updates on their family back home. The station's survival, however, hangs in the balance. A recent fundraiser in Amsterdam raised a few thousand dollars, but its future remains uncertain due to potential cuts from the Dutch foreign ministry.

Radio Dabanga delivers critical updates to millions affected by war and displacement. Without it, Sudanese communities would lose one of their last reliable sources of news. The station's ability to continue broadcasting now depends on securing new funding and support.