Khartoum's Fragrant Streets After Years of War

Khartoum is tentatively returning to life after two years under the control of the Rapid Support Forces, though the scars of conflict are deeply visible. Sudanese activist Duaa Tariq, who has been providing ongoing updates to NPR throughout the war, describes a city attempting to reclaim normalcy. Despite widespread destruction, reports indicate a surprising resurgence of cultural expression – the scent of perfume and the sound of music are reportedly filling the streets, a poignant contrast to the recent violence. While the capital is now described as “liberated,” the reality is far more complex. The infrastructure is severely damaged, and the long-term effects of the conflict on Khartoum’s residents will undoubtedly be profound. Tariq’s firsthand accounts offer a crucial perspective on the fragile hope emerging amidst the ruins, highlighting both the resilience of the Sudanese people and the immense challenges that lie ahead in rebuilding their capital. The juxtaposition of perfume and music with the backdrop of devastation speaks volumes about the human spirit’s enduring need for beauty and normalcy, even in the face of unimaginable hardship.