Search Results (98)

Background: Significant factors impact the wellbeing of South Sudanese youth who settle in Australia. This article proposes a community empowerment framework based on outcomes from research and community feedback undertaken in Melbourne, with South Sudanese youth and elders to improve social connection and community engagement of the youth. Methods: Twenty-three semi-structured interviews, four focus groups and two community forums were conducted using qualitative, case study methodology. Data were collected from South Sudanese youth aged 14 to 21 years, social workers, elders and parents from the South Sudanese community. Inductive thematic analysis was used to gain an understanding of the social issues facing South Sudanese youth, Results: Four themes—health and wellbeing, the experience of racism, sports and intergenerational conflict—were identified during analysis. These themes were then used to develop and propose a Community Empowerment Framework (CEF), that outlines strategies to empower South Sudanese youth to improve their wellbeing at different levels: personal empowerment, career empowerment and community empowerment (both internal and external). Conclusions: The CEF provides a community-informed model for service providers and policy makers to promote positive community engagement and social connection to improve the lives of South Sudanese youth living in Australia. Full article

This study presents a typological framework for public spaces in pre-war Greater Khartoum, Sudan, addressing the lack of localized classification systems for Sudanese and African urban contexts. Through an analysis of 64 public spaces, integrating insights from literature, field surveys, and interviews, the research identifies four key typologies: formal public spaces, informal and insurgent public spaces, privately owned civic spaces, and public–private spaces. This framework captures the complex interplay of historical, cultural, social, and economic factors shaping Khartoum’s public realm. It highlights the coexistence of colonial-era planned spaces with emergent informal and contested areas, reflecting the city’s dynamic urban landscape. The study contributes to the debates on public space in African cities by offering a contextually sensitive approach beyond Western-centric models. It provides valuable insights for urban planning and policy development in Khartoum and similar rapidly urbanizing African contexts, emphasizing the need for inclusive, adaptive, and culturally responsive public space management strategies. Full article

Background: Rapid advances in dental medicine necessitate a shift from traditional educational paradigms to competency-based education (CBE), which emphasizes the acquisition of specific clinical and professional skills. Aim: This study examines the implementation and effectiveness of CBE in Sudanese dental schools by comparing four curriculum models—discipline-based, hybrid, integrated, and community-based. Methods: A convergent parallel mixed-method design was employed to collect quantitative data through structured surveys and qualitative data via semi-structured interviews with students, faculty, and dental practitioners. Descriptive statistical analyses and thematic analyses were used to assess competency achievement across eight domains and to evaluate stakeholder perceptions. Results: Quantitative findings revealed robust competency attainment in the knowledge base domain, while practice management skills were significantly lacking across several models. Notably, the integrated curriculum at Ribat University achieved high scores in both communication and practice management, contrasting with gaps observed in discipline-based and hybrid models. Qualitative insights underscored the need for improved management training and stronger interdisciplinary integration. Conclusions: CBE frameworks in Sudanese dental education effectively foster essential competencies; however, targeted curricular enhancements—particularly in practice management—are required to better prepare graduates for contemporary dental practice. Full article

The resin of Commiphora africana and the resin and bark of Boswellia papyrifera play versatile roles in traditional Sudanese culture, including use in inhalation therapy, liquid remedies, and as chewing gum. Thus, this study aimed to analyze the volatile compounds in these materials using various extraction methods and assess their biological activities. Extraction methods included MonoTrap solid-phase microextraction, smoke solvent trapping, and acetone immersion. Gas chromatography−mass spectrometry analysis of MonoTrap extracts identified highly volatile compounds, while smoke extracts contained compounds with lower volatility. Solvent immersion captured a broader range of compounds. The resin of C. africana was rich in limonene, verbenone, and β-selinene, whereas B. papyrifera extracts contained octyl acetate, trans-nerolidol, and nerolidol isobutyrate as major compounds. Biological assays showed C. africana smoke extract inhibited tyrosinase activity, with p-cymene and S-limonene acting as competitive inhibitors. It also inhibited the growth of cancer cells, A549 and MIA Paca-2, while solvent extracts from both resins inhibited all tested cell lines. Further, the acetone extracts exhibited strong antibacterial activity against Streptococcus mutans. These results highlight the differences in chemical composition between the two species, the impact of extraction methods, and the therapeutic potential of C. africana and B. papyrifera as sources of bioactive compounds. Full article

(1) Background: Turning the lens away from national schooling, which has long been proven problematic for refugee populations, this comparative case study explores the educational opportunities that faith-based, tuition-free schools provide refugee youth living in protracted exile in low and middle-income neighboring countries. (2) Methods: Leveraging Shirazi and Jaffe-Walter’s concept of countertopography and Bartlett and Vavrus’s comparative case study, this article draws on ethnographic engagement (2017–2019) at “Cairo Christian Academy”, a Sudanese refugee school in Egypt, and qualitative interviews with teachers, administrators, and staff at “Beirut Covenant School” (2020–2021) in Lebanon to answer the following question: What is possible within private, faith-based, tuition-free schools—particularly schools that teach secular curricula and are open to children from all faith backgrounds, as these mirror some of the more egalitarian aspects of public education—which have absorbed refugee students as a part of their mission to care for others? (3) Results and conclusions: Our findings suggest that the funding structures, hiring practices, and moral underpinnings of these schools facilitate caring, loving environments for refugee youth while also providing educational opportunities unavailable to them otherwise in these host countries. Furthermore, our methodological approach explores ways to conduct research in contexts mired in multiple, overlapping crises. Full article

The complexities of refugee resettlement in the U.S. require comprehensive mental health and psychosocial support (MHPSS) strategies, yet significant gaps persist due to resettlement policies prioritizing short-term self-sufficiency over long-term mental health and well-being. This study explores the shift from traditional “burden sharing” to “task sharing” models that emphasize community-initiated care (CIC). Using a two-phase qualitative method, 27 refugee leaders and bilingual service providers from 14 refugee communities, including Afghan, Bhutanese, Burmese, Congolese, Somali, and Sudanese communities, across four states participated in focus groups or key informant interviews. Thematic analysis revealed that peer support models play a critical role as bridges between cultures, service sectors, and formal and informal networks. However, peer support remains insufficient without structural reform, as refugees face barriers such as lack of professional development and power imbalances with professionals while managing their own life challenges. This study emphasizes formalizing CIC models that empower refugees to lead the sharing process in collaborative care. Intersectoral collaboration and supportive policy frameworks are necessary to sustain peer support and build long-term leadership capacity. The findings highlight the need for a system-level shift to ensure equitable responsibility for care, fostering sustainable, community-driven MHPSS solutions in refugee resettlement. Full article

Irrigation schemes represent the backbone of Sudan’s food security and economy. The Gezira, Rahad, and El-Gunied irrigation schemes depend mainly on the Blue Nile as their primary water source. However, the construction of the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD) in the Blue Nile at the Sudan border has changed water flow regulations along the Blue Nile. Therefore, the Sudanese irrigation schemes that depend on the Blue Nile are affected by the operation and management of the GERD. This study used datasets derived from the Moderate Resolution Imaging Spectroradiometer (MODIS), specifically the enhanced vegetation index (EVI) and crop water use efficiency (CWUE), alongside climate time-series data obtained from the Climate Research Unit, to evaluate the performance of irrigation schemes in Sudan affected by climate variability and the construction and filling of the GERD. The analysis was carried out using R version 4.4.1 and spreadsheets. A dummy variable approach was employed to examine the effects of the GERD on the EVI, given the limited timeframe of the study, whilst Grey Relational Analysis was applied to investigate the influence of selected climate variables on the EVI. The results revealed that in the Gezira scheme, the impact of the GERD on the EVI was minimal, with rainfall and temperature identified as the predominant factors. In contrast, the construction of the GERD had significant negative repercussions on the EVI in the Rahad scheme, while it positively affected the El-Gunied scheme. The advantageous effects observed in the El-Gunied scheme were linked to the mitigation measures employed by the heightening of the Roseires Dam in Sudan since 2013. The Rahad and El-Gunied schemes exhibited heightened sensitivity to GERD-induced changes, primarily due to their reliance on irrigation water sourced from pumping stations dependent on Blue Nile water levels. Additionally, this study forecasts a decrease in cropping intensity attributed to the GERD, estimating reductions of 3.9% in Rahad, 1.5% in Gezira, and 0.8% in El-Gunied. Ultimately, this study highlights the detrimental impact of the GERD on Blue Nile water levels as a significant adverse factor associated with its construction and filling, which has led to a marked decline in CWUE across the irrigation schemes. The research underscores the intricate inter-relationship among environmental, political, institutional, and infrastructural elements that shapes irrigation efficiency and water management practices. This study concludes that enhancing irrigation efficiency and assessing the performance of irrigation schemes require significant consideration of institutional, economic, and political factors, especially in Sub-Saharan Africa. Full article

Background and Objectives: The International Federation of Gynecology and Obstetrics (FIGO) and the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) define abnormal uterine bleeding (AUB) as “bleeding from the uterus that is abnormal in regularity, volume, frequency, or duration and occurs in the absence of pregnancy”. The impact of AUB on the physical and psychosocial well-being of adolescent girls can be significant. In this study, we aim to investigate the menstrual cycle characteristics in adolescent Sudanese schoolgirls and the prevalence of abnormal uterine bleeding (AUB) and its associated factors. Materials and Methods: A school-based cross-sectional study was conducted in Almatamah locality, Sudan. A questionnaire was used to collect sociodemographic data and menstrual cycle parameters. Weight and height were measured, body mass index (BMI) was calculated, and hemoglobin levels were determined. Logistic regression was also performed. Results: Of the 162 girls in the study, 27.2% had frequent cycles, 3.7% had infrequent cycles, 2.5% had prolonged menses duration, 44.4% had irregular cycles, and 21.0% had heavy menstrual bleeding. The overall prevalence of AUB in the study was 64.8%. None of the investigated factors (chronological age, maternal education or occupation, gynecological age, BMI, and hemoglobin level) were associated with AUB. Conclusions: In conclusion, the prevalence of AUB was high among the study participants, with irregular cycles, frequent cycles, and heavy menstrual bleeding being the most common types. Full article

The most frequent type of leukemia in Africa is chronic myeloid leukemia (CML). The genetic background of the rarer Philadelphia chromosome (Ph) Ph-ve (BCR-ABL-ve) subform of CML is largely unknown in African patients. Therefore, in this study, we aimed to investigate the role of CYP1A1 and 2D6 SNPs in the pathogenesis of Ph-ve CML in the Sudanese population. A total of 126 patients were selected for analysis. DNA was isolated from Ph-ve CML patients and a control group for PCR-RFLP analysis of SNPs CYP1A1*2C and CYP2D6*4. The CYP1A1 gene significantly expressed the GG variant genotype (p < 0.05) in 23.1% of the Ph-ve CML patients and 8% of the control group. In contrast, the CYP2D6 GA genotype was strongly associated with a reduced risk of developing Ph-ve CML (p < 0.005) with a frequency of 50% in Ph-ve patients and 93% in the control group. CYP1A1 GG polymorphism was prevalent among patients with Ph-ve CML, suggesting its role in disease development. CYP2D6 GA (IM) polymorphism was uncommon among patients, compared with the control group, possibly indicating a protective role of the polymorphisms from Ph-ve CML. This study demonstrates an association between key metabolic SNPs and Ph-ve CML and highlights the role that altered xenobiotic metabolism may play in the development of several human leukemias. Full article

Background/Objectives: Baobab (Adansonia digitate L.) is an underutilized species and edible parts (fruits, leaves and seeds) contribute to food security and human health in tropical areas. Although the fruits have attracted greater research interest and have recently been approved for consumption in EU countries, the leaves are traditionally consumed but they have yet to be studied from an interventional perspective. The aim of this study was to propose a protocol for a dietary intervention using baobab leaves (BLs) to achieve the recommended reference values for proteins and minerals (K, Ca, Mg, Na, Fe, Mn) for different target groups of the Sudanese population. Methods: Dry matter, crude fat, protein and ash content, mineral content (Na, Mg, K, Ca, Fe, Mn), total phenolic, and flavonoid compounds were determined in BLs from six different areas. To assess the health and nutrition status in Sudan, time-series data (2013–2023) from the DataBank Health Nutrition and Population Statistics database were used. The reference values for nutrients recommended by the European Food Safety Authority were used to estimate the amount of baobab leaf intake (BLI, g/day). Results: For each nutrient, the study area with the lowest amount of BLs to be consumed is recommended. Leaves from the area of El Gari (BN3) 18.312 g/day and 30.712 g/day are recommended for K and Ca, which are particularly beneficial for children aged 1–3 years and lactating women. Leaves from Kor Tagat (KR1) are suitable for sodium intake, requiring approximately 13–23 g/day across all age groups. Leaves from Kazgil (KR2) (46–81 g/day), (35–66 g/day), (0.48–0.68 g/day), and (4–6 g/day) are optimal for fulfilling the daily requirements of magnesium, iron, manganese, and protein in this order. Conclusions: The systematic inclusion of BLs in the diet can positively support the nutritional status of various demographics. Moreover, the findings of this study demonstrated the foundation for public health and nutritional policy-makers on how they will tackle malnutrition and food insecurity worldwide by incorporating naturally available diets and nutritious alternatives. Recommendation: Further research should focus on assessing the nutritional composition factors that could affect the absorption of nutrients such as phytates and oxalates and investigating the in vitro bioavailability of the elements. Full article

The issue of suicide has garnered considerable attention in refugee scholarship, where research examines how unique forced migration and resettlement challenges exacerbate risks and vulnerabilities to suicide. However, there are gaps in understanding the social and cultural factors shaping the lived experience of suicide in refugee communities. Using the example of young people of African backgrounds in Australia, this paper presents a collaboration among two academics and two South Sudanese youth advocates to explore the sociocultural factors impacting suicidality through reflexive discussions and collaborative poetry. This combined approach offered a unique and nuanced conceptual and methodological framework to contribute culturally specific narratives to critical suicide studies and challenge western-centric and biomedical perspectives on suicide. The process highlighted (i) the lack of dialogue about suicide in the South Sudanese community and (ii) the absence of community-based support structures to address suicide. This paper provides useful insights into the culturally specific context of suicide, adding refugee perspectives to the discipline of critical suicide studies. Full article

Background: Zingiber officinale rhizome is widely cultivated in the central region of Sudan (Gezira) and data on the biological properties of this variety grown in Sudan’s climate are scarce. This study aims to comprehensively analyze the antibacterial, antioxidant, phytochemical, and GC-MS properties of Zingiber officinale (ginger rhizome) to explore its potential applications. Methods and Results: The in vitro antibacterial assessment of the aqueous extract of Sudanese ginger revealed moderate activity against Staphylococcus aureus, Salmonella typhi, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Escherichia coli, and Klebsiella pneumonia, as determined by the disc diffusion method. The inhibition zones ranged from 12.87 ± 0.11 mm to 14.5 ± 0.12 mm at 30 µg/disc. The minimum inhibitory concentration ranged from 6.25 to 25 µg/mL, while the MBC ranged from 25 to 50 µg/mL. The MBC/MIC exhibited a bactericidal effect against all tested bacteria. Phytochemical screening revealed the presence of various chemical constituents, such as saponins, flavonoids, glycosides, alkaloids, steroids, terpenoids, and the absence of tannins in Sudanese ginger rhizome. Furthermore, GC-MS analysis of ginger rhizome identified 22 chemical compounds with retention times ranging from 7.564 to 17.023 min. The identification of 22 chemical compounds through GC-MS analysis further underscores the prospect of harnessing ginger rhizome for the development of novel medications. Computational analyses showed that ginger compounds bind the Protein Data Bank (PDB) codes 1JIJ and 2QZW with high binding affinities, reaching −9.5 kcal/mol. Ginger compounds also established promising molecular interactions with some key residues, satisfactorily explaining the in vitro results and supporting the pharmacokinetic and experimental findings. Conclusions: This study lays the groundwork for future research and pharmaceutical exploration aimed at harnessing the beneficial properties of ginger rhizome for medicinal and therapeutic purposes, particularly its antimicrobial potential. Full article

Background and Objectives: Postpartum depression is one of the most common complications of childbirth. While the epidemiology of postpartum depression has been extensively studied in African countries, there is little published data on the topic in Sudan. In addition, no studies have been conducted in Eastern Sudan. This study aims to evaluate the factors associated with postpartum depression among Sudanese women in Gadarif in Eastern Sudan. Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional study (using the systematic random sampling technique) of women presenting to Gadarif Maternity Hospital for postnatal follow-up within six weeks of childbirth was conducted. A questionnaire was used to collect sociodemographic information, and the Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale was used to assess postpartum depression. Results: Three hundred women were enrolled in the study. The median (interquartile) age and parity were 30.0 (25.0–34.0) years and 2 (1–4). Thirty-one (10.3%) of the women had postpartum depression. A univariate analysis showed that a past history of depression was the only factor associated with postpartum depression (OR = 3.04, 95% CI = 1.03–8.97). Other investigated factors (age, parity, educational level, occupation, history of previous miscarriage or intrauterine fetal death, a family history of depression, financial support, medical insurance, whether the pregnancy was planned or not, and if the gender of the newborn was known before delivery) were not associated with postpartum depression. Conclusions: The current study showed that 1 out of 10 women had postpartum depression that was associated with a past history of depression. Factors that have been reported to be associated with postpartum depression in African countries (age, parity, education, and occupation) were not found to be associated in this study. Mental health assessment needs to be employed for women in their antenatal and postpartum periods. Full article

Coral reefs off the coast of the Republic of Sudan are still considered to be among the most pristine reefs in the central Red Sea. The complex coastal fringing reefs, offshore banks, and shoals of Dungonab Bay in the north and Sanganeb atoll situated further to the south, about 23 km off the Sudanese mainland coast, were inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List in 2016. Due to their remote location and limited access, monitoring of the status of the reefs has been sporadic. Here, we present the results of a repeated large area photomosaic survey (5 m × 5 m plots) on the Sanganeb atoll, first established and surveyed in 1980, and revisited in 1991 and most recently in 2019. The 2019 survey recovered and reinstated the four original monitoring plots. Evaluation of photographic and video records from one photomosaic plot on the seaward slope of the atoll revealed general continuity of the overall community structure and composition over 39 years. Individual colonies of Echinopora gemmacea and Lobophyllia erythraea were recorded in the exact same positions as in the 1980 and 1991 plots. The genera Acropora and Pocillopora remain dominant, although in altered proportions. Shifts in composition were detected at the species level (e.g., increase in Pocillopora verrucosa, Stylophora pistillata, Acropora hemprichii, Dipsastraea pallida, and Echinopora gemmacea, decrease in Acropora cytherea and A. superba), in addition to changes in the extent of uncolonized substrate (e.g., increase from 43.9% in 1980 to 52.2% in 2019), and other scleractinian, hydrozoan, and soft coral living cover. While the temporal resolution only includes three sampling events over 39 years (1980, 1991, 2019), this study presents one of the longest time series of benthic community surveys available for the entire Red Sea. A semi-quantitative estimate of vertical reef growth in the studied test plot indicates a reduction in net accretion rates of more than 80%, from 2.27 to 2.72 cm/yr between 1980 and 1991 to 0.28–0.42 cm/yr between 1991 and 2019. We carefully conclude that the changes observed in the coral community in the plot in 2019 (Acropora–Pocillopora shift, increase in Montipora and calcareous algae) are representative of impacts at the community level, including rising sea surface temperatures and recent bleaching events. Full article

This study explores food insecurity in South Sudan through the lens of young entrepreneurs, revealing insights into understanding the causes, coping strategies, and innovative solutions. Analyzing survey responses reveals a complicated problem linked to poverty, conflict, climate change, and economic instability. We surveyed 19 standout candidates selected from 325 South Sudanese participants from the United Nations Institute for Training and Research (UNITAR’s) hybrid training on entrepreneurship and agribusiness, who successfully passed the assessment criteria to attend a workshop in Hiroshima, Japan, in February 2024. These participants clearly depicted the dire circumstances, with widespread food insecurity, heavy reliance on humanitarian aid, and prevalent malnutrition, especially in conflict-affected regions like Yambio. Conflict, climate shocks, economic instability, and inadequate infrastructure emerged as primary drivers of food insecurity. Despite these challenges, young entrepreneurs express a keen desire to contribute to solutions, advocating for sustainable agriculture, entrepreneurship, and education initiatives. During conflict, coping strategies vary from reducing meal frequency to diversifying diets and engaging in subsistence farming. The innovative solutions proposed include sustainable agricultural practices, value chain development, and technology adoption. The study underscores the urgent need for comprehensive strategies addressing the root causes of food insecurity while empowering communities and young entrepreneurs to foster resilience. Sustained support in youth agri-business capacity building and entrepreneurial skills development, increased agricultural investment, infrastructure enhancement, and targeted youth empowerment initiatives are emphasized. Through collaborative efforts, South Sudan can progress towards achieving resilience and improving food security. Full article