P_SudanMedia
Sustaining public-interest journalism in Sudan
When war broke out in Sudan in April 2023, many media outlets shut down and access to reliable information suffered. In response, Media in Cooperation and Transition (MiCT) supports Sudanese media with production grants and editorial coaching to help sustain independent reporting.
Sudan’s civil war has deepened an already difficult environment for journalists. Many media organisations have suspended operations, and those still working face insecurity, displacement and economic hardship.
A 2023 study by MiCT notes that “43 percent of respondents now work in unpaid positions, with over a quarter having ceased publication. Equipment shortages combined with safety concerns are primary setbacks,” with some journalists continuing to publish from exile (MiCT, 2023).
As public trust erodes and misinformation spreads, independent media continues to play a crucial role — even under extreme pressure (RSF, 2024; UNESCO, 2024). As the need for credible information grows, efforts to keep Sudanese media functioning have become more urgent.
MiCT collaborates with up to 30 Sudanese media outlets and initiatives, offering production grants, editorial support and capacity development. The aim is to support media partners to continue publishing and broadcasting in a context where journalism is both urgently needed and increasingly difficult to practise.
Alongside these grants, MiCT organises workshops for media professionals based in Sudan and in exile. More than 50 journalists and editors take part in training sessions on constructive journalism, disinformation, the use of AI tools in reporting, and fundraising strategies for independent media. These sessions focus on practical skills that can be applied immediately, tailored to the constraints of working under conflict conditions.
The project also offers one-on-one mentoring to help strengthen editorial processes and sustain quality reporting. Feedback is provided on story structure, verification and sourcing, with support adjusted to the needs of each outlet.
As part of its broader engagement, MiCT also supports the Sudan Media Forum — an existing network that brings together independent media organisations. The project encourages collaboration with members of the Forum, aiming to strengthen shared editorial values and contribute to the long-term operation of Sudanese media actors.
The project is implemented by MiCT and funded by the German Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ).