This article explores the emergence of the first newspapers in Sudan, spanning from the colonial
era to the post-independence period. It examines the political climate in which the press
developed and was controlled—both under colonial rule and during the military dictatorships
that governed the country more frequently than elected governments. The analysis traces how
early newspapers, initiated by foreign communities, inspired the creation of native Sudanese
publications in terms of language, staffing, ownership, and readership. The article highlights how
the press, despite suffering under both colonial and dictatorial regimes, endeavored to foster
enlightened public opinion. It served as a platform for nationalist figures to emerge, paving the
way for a new generation of thinkers and politicians. Additionally, it explores the significant
influence of Egypt on Sudanese journalism and politics, both through the press and by shaping
its evolution. The study also reviews the restrictive laws enacted by the colonial administration
and successive national regimes, which imposed censorship and arbitrary measures against
journalists. Technical and financial challenges that hindered the growth of the Sudanese press
are also discussed, including issues such as widespread illiteracy, poverty, limited access to
official news, and barriers to developing a local printing industry. Finally, the article identifies
the most repressive regime of the post-independence era as the Islamist military government led
by Hassan Al-Turabi and Omar Al-Bashir (1989–2019), which epitomized the suppression of
press freedoms.
البروفيسور د عبده مختار موسى | ِprof dr Abdu Mukhtar Musa Mahmoud | 3126