Sudanese authorities showcased 570 recovered ancient artefacts at a ceremony in Port Sudan on Tuesday, celebrating the return of priceless items stolen from the National Museum in Khartoum during the early days of the ongoing civil war.
The museum was looted and badly damaged after the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) seized Khartoum. Only the heaviest objects, such as the towering black granite statue of Pharaoh Taharqa (who ruled Kush and Egypt from 690 to 664 BC), remained in the building.
Officials estimate the recovered artefacts represent about 30 per cent of the tens of thousands that were either destroyed or smuggled abroad. The museum’s most valuable collection, known as the “gold room,” remains missing. It contained ancient jewellery and 24-carat gold items, some nearly 8,000 years old.
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The recovery was achieved under heavy security with months of investigation in collaboration with Interpol and UNESCO. Authorities did not provide details on the methods used to retrieve the items.
“Sudan’s heritage is not only of national importance, it is a treasure of humanity,” said UNESCO representative in Sudan, Ahmed Junaid.
Sudan’s Finance Minister, Gibril Ibrahim, stressed the artefacts’ cultural significance:
“Those who looted these artefacts did so not only for their value, but to obliterate the nation’s identity, history, and civilisation.”
He added that while the public may not understand the objects’ monetary value, they reflect the identity of the nation and its history.
After the army recaptured Khartoum from the RSF, archaeologists entered the museum in March for the first time in two years to assess the damage.
The Minister of Information and Culture announced a financial reward for anyone returning stolen antiquities, though the amount was not disclosed.
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Looting has affected most of Sudan’s museums, including the Palace of Sultan Ali Dina in al-Fasher, North Darfur, which fell to the RSF in October.
The recovered items include figurines, ornate vases, and scarab-shaped amulets, highlighting the rich history of civilizations that have inhabited Sudan over millennia.
Esther Ososanya is an investigative journalist with Pinnacle Daily, reporting across health, business, environment, metro, Fct and crime. Known for her bold, empathetic storytelling, she uncovers hidden truths, challenges broken systems, and gives voice to overlooked Nigerians. Her work drives national conversations and demands accountability one powerful story at a time.
