Atbara, Sudan

Welcome to Atbara, the Railway City of Sudan, located in the northeastern part of the country in River Nile State. This city is known for its significant links to the railway industry, making it an intriguing destination for railway enthusiasts. With a population of 111,399, Atbara has a rich history and is home to numerous attractions for visitors to explore.

History buffs will be intrigued to learn that Atbara was a strategic location for military operations due to its location at the confluence of the Nile and its most northern tributary, the Atbarah River (Bahr-el-Aswad, or Black River). Atbara was conquered and sacked by forces of the Ethiopian Empire in the year 1619. The Battle of Atbara, fought on 8 April 1898, saw Lord Kitchener’s Anglo-Egyptian army defeat the Mahdist forces, commanding by Amir Mahmud Ahmad, leading to a decisive victory at the Battle of Omdurman on 2 September 1898, giving the British control over the Sudan.

Atbara was a crucial town for the Sudanese railway industry, but today, rail traffic is much reduced. Visitors can still explore the original station and unusual dome-shaped houses of railway workers that remain. The first trade union in Sudan was formed among railroad workers in Atbara in 1946. The city is also considered by many to be the home of Sudanese communism. Sudan’s president from 1969 to 1985, Jaafer Nimeiri, alternated between communism, capitalism, and Islamic fundamentalism, and the communist phase had its stronghold around Atbara. Atbara was also the starting point for mobilizations against the regime in December 2018.

Geographically, Atbara is located at the junction of the Nile and Atbarah rivers. The city is made up of several districts, including Umbukole, which was home to the First Higher School in Atbara. Other districts include the railway district, Almurabaat, Alsawdana, and Almatar.

Atbara is an important railway junction and railroad manufacturing center, and most employment in the city is related to the rail lines. The Sudanese National Railway Company’s headquarters are located in Atbara. The city is also home to one of Sudan’s largest cement factories, the Atbara Cement Corporation.

Atbara has a hot desert climate with an annual mean temperature reaching over 30 °C (86 °F) and the average highs exceeding 40 °C (104 °F) during 7 months of the year. The annual average rainfall is 60 mm, mostly from July and August. Atbara is sunny, averaging 3,545 hours of bright sunshine per year or 81% of possible sunshine.

In terms of notable residents, Mandour Elmahdi, who wrote A Short History of the Sudan, was a well-known resident of Atbara.

In conclusion, Atbara is a fascinating destination for anyone interested in the history of Sudan and the railway industry. With its unique culture, rich history, and beautiful landscapes, Atbara is a city worth visiting. Come and explore the Railway City of Sudan!