Returning Sands
A campaign and documentary protecting Sudanese cultural heritage during one of the world’s most devastating and underreported wars.
Tap a city stamp to see its events, or the Returning Sands stamp to donate.
Context
What’s at stake
Cultural heritage is a tangible expression of identity. In conflict it becomes a target: a way to erode a people’s memory, cohesion, and continuity. Since 2023, Sudan has seen widespread and irreversible damage to archaeological sites, archives, and museums. The destruction is ongoing. Heritage workers operate under extreme conditions with little visibility or support, and they need aid, expertise, and protective resources now.
60%
of Sudan National Museum holdings looted during the occupation of Khartoum.
12M+
people displaced at the height of the war that began in April 2023.
20+
museums damaged, with looting and trafficking of collections confirmed.
Documentary
The film
From exile in Egypt, Ali Nour coordinates Sudan’s fight to keep heritage alive. With national memory under siege, Ali and his crew of brave volunteers do everything to safeguard Sudan’s future while maintaining its thread to the past.
Directed by Aicha Cherif, the film follows Ali Nour and a network of displaced Sudanese heritage workers protecting their country’s memory from Cairo.
About the filmSupport the project
Every contribution goes directly into documenting endangered heritage, supporting Sudanese heritage workers, and finishing the film.
Gallery
Recent posts from Instagram, and the trailer when it is ready.
