Amidst the ongoing struggle with the grim realities of conflict and hunger, a glimmer of hope emerged on April 19 2024. The Sudanese Artistic Resilience Concert took centre stage in Nairobi, bringing together voices of resilience and defiance amidst escalating turmoil. Hungry for Action in partnership with the Aflam Sudan Sudanese Film Week, Sudan Doctors for Human Rights, alongside Eric Wainaina and the Salaam musicians, our mission was unmistakable: to honour the resilience of Sudanese artists and advocate for an end to the violence ravaging their homeland. Through the universal mediums of music, film, and art, they crafted a narrative of strength and unity, stitching together a tapestry of hope in the face of adversity.
Sudan’s plight has reached a critical juncture, with over 10 million people displaced and millions more facing the spectre of hunger. But amidst this chaos, Sudanese artists have emerged as beacons of hope, refusing to be silenced by the ravages of war. The Sudanese Artistic Resilience Concert stood as a testament to their unwavering spirit, amplifying voices drowned out by the clamor of conflict.
The Salaam Artists Group was formed and led by the incomparable Eric Wainaina, his Kenyan comrades Mbogua Mbugua Mbugua, L-Ness, TLVNS, and talented Sudanese musicians Ibrahem Ahmed and Shamso. Our concert became more than just a musical extravaganza—it was a call to arms. It was a declaration that conflict breeds hunger, and it’s time to break free from this vicious cycle.
Our concert, which brought together communities across the world, wasn’t just about entertainment—it was a platform for action:
- Abolishing Hunger and Rape as Weapons of War: We refuse to accept hunger and sexual violence as tools of oppression. It’s time to stand up and say enough is enough.
- Urgent Need for Unhindered Humanitarian Access: Every Sudanese deserves access to life-saving aid. We demand unrestricted humanitarian access to those in need.
- Immediate Call for a Ceasefire: The time for peace is now. We urge all parties to lay down their arms and work towards a peaceful resolution.
As the echoes of our concert fade into the night, one thing remains abundantly clear: the hunger for action has been ignited, and together, we will continue to stand in solidarity with the people of Sudan until peace prevails.
