By The Sudanese nation has been shaken by the untimely and tragic death of Alwaleed Abdalhameed Abideen, a young entrepreneur and visionary who dedicated his life to fostering innovation and empowering youth in Sudan. Alwaleed, a graduate of Lancaster University in the United Kingdom, was not just an ordinary citizen; he was a driving force in Sudan’s startup ecosystem, working tirelessly to create opportunities for young entrepreneurs and develop sustainable business solutions.
A Promising Future Cut Short
Alwaleed’s journey was marked by academic excellence and an unrelenting passion for progress. After completing his higher education at Lancaster University, he returned to Sudan with a mission to support young innovators and develop a thriving entrepreneurial landscape. He played a significant role in establishing Sudan’s startup ecosystem, mentoring aspiring entrepreneurs and promoting business initiatives designed to uplift communities.
However, his bright future was tragically extinguished when he was unlawfully detained by the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) during the ongoing Sudanese conflict. Alwaleed endured six months of captivity under inhumane conditions before being released in a severely weakened state. Despite efforts to save his life, he succumbed to the devastating effects of his prolonged detention and died shortly after being transported to Al-Qutaynah Hospital.
A Victim of War and Injustice
Alwaleed’s imprisonment and eventual death highlight the brutal realities faced by civilians in Sudan. He was not a combatant, nor was he involved in any political or military faction. Yet, like many other Sudanese professionals and activists, he became a victim of enforced disappearance and mistreatment at the hands of armed groups.
His final public appearance, captured in a harrowing video, showed the devastating toll of his captivity. Emaciated and frail, his voice barely audible, he identified himself and his residence in Khartoum’s Arkwit neighborhood before being taken to the hospital. His suffering is a testament to the dire humanitarian crisis unfolding in Sudan, where countless civilians remain trapped, detained, or displaced by the war.
International Outcry and Calls for Justice
News of Alwaleed’s passing has sparked widespread mourning among Sudanese citizens, the global diaspora, and human rights activists. Many have condemned the RSF’s actions and called for accountability for those responsible for his unlawful detention and mistreatment. His death serves as a grim reminder of the countless individuals who remain unjustly imprisoned or who have perished due to the war’s relentless violence.
As a graduate of Lancaster University, Alwaleed’s story also resonates deeply within the UK’s academic and Sudanese expatriate communities. Many of his peers and former classmates have expressed their sorrow, remembering him as a bright and compassionate individual committed to making a positive impact.
Honoring Alwaleed’s Legacy
While Alwaleed Abdalhameed Abideen is no longer with us, his vision and contributions to Sudan’s entrepreneurial landscape must not be forgotten. The best way to honor his memory is to continue the work he started—supporting Sudanese innovators, advocating for human rights, and ensuring that the voices of those who have suffered do not go unheard.
His death is a tragedy, but his life was an inspiration. May his legacy serve as a beacon of hope for a future Sudan where justice, peace, and innovation prevail.
Rest in peace, Alwaleed. Your dreams and aspirations will live on.