When the desert meets the forest, a fascinating journey in the Sudan

There is a far away place where cultures, religions, traditions merge. At the market, men in their white costumes, called jalabyia, sell delicious vegetables. Some kids are amused to help their families sell tomatoes. The customers in colorful clothes seem to enjoy having a coffee. The smells are quite mixed, from hibiscus tea to a world of clean pure air from gum Arabic trees.
The place is filled with eccentric sceneries including churches and mosks. The contrast between both sides is fascinating and diversity is what makes the beauty of that small village at the center of Sudan. It is now the month of the drought and it is also possible to see nomad families moving from the desert to the forest to ensure there is enough food for everyone. There is wide range of belongings that is part of the trip: beds, pans, chairs. All goes on camel and donkeybacks. Along the way, amazing strong women pass by walking miles and miles to collect water, which is carried on top of their heads defying gravity. It is a life of struggle and despite the scarcity of resources, there are so many smiles.
From the window of my office, I see someone pass by on a donkey cart collecting firewood that will be used for cooking mashed beans and goat meat. It seems that there is 100 years between my life and life through that glass window. I read the news about Abyei but it only talks about conflicts. It is written in a way people are taken as numbers, which is sad. I give my contribution by leaving my comfortable home and my family for a few months to understand people and help them get access to basic needs such as education, water, etc. It may sound ironic but volunteerism is priceless as it does bring satisfaction. Helping people and contributing to changing people’s lives, especially in difficult times, has also changed my life. So I continue my journey by giving back along my road. I encourage you to make time during your travels and do the same, even if it is for a day.