Old Dongola community engagement from a Sudanese perspective

Amid growing threats to cultural heritage in Sudan —even prior to the outbreak of conflict in April 2023— the National Corporation for Antiquities and Museums (NCAM) and various national and international archaeological missions emphasized an urgent need for capacity building to support the conservation and management of archaeological sites. Community work has proved effective in this regard. Training Sudanese archaeologists and university students, developing educational programs for learners at various levels, and involving local communities in the protection and management of heritage sites can significantly contribute to the sustainable development and long-term preservation of cultural heritage. This article provides an overview of the latest two community engagement projects conducted by the Polish Centre of Mediterranean Archaeology, University of Warsaw (PCMA UW) at Old Dongola. Both projects: the training program in 2021 and the Baraka project, aimed to establish and strengthen the connection between archaeologists and local communities by fostering engagement and collaboration to raise awareness of cultural heritage and encourage community involvement in its preservation and protection. This was achieved by training Sudanese graduates in Archaeology and Tourism from various universities, particularly those of local origin, to serve as facilitators and instructors in community engagement programs targeting diverse local groups, including school students.