Welcome to Spotlight Africa, Osavul’s specialized series dedicated to dissecting how the pillars of information, influence, and perception are actively shaping events across the continent. Our goal is to cut through the complexity, delivering actionable clarity directly from frontline experts.
In this essential Launch & Learn edition, we're diving deep into the conflict in Sudan, arguably one of the most critical - and yet most neglected - global crises today. The scant media coverage is, in itself, an information security challenge.
We'll host Cameron Hudson (Senior Associate, CSIS Africa Program) for a crucial, in-depth discussion on Sudan's trajectory: its past, present, and most importantly, its precarious future.
Cameron brings decades of experience in African security and governance. He previously served as Director for African Affairs at the White House National Security Council, Chief of Staff to U.S. Presidential Special Envoys for Sudan, and Senior Fellow at the Atlantic Council’s Africa Center — bringing deep expertise in peacebuilding, governance, and international engagement across Africa.
Agenda:
Overview of the conflict. Understanding the short history of the Sudan conflict to establish the foundational narratives and grievances that are being leveraged today.
The Current Reality. An assessment of the immediate ground situation and the humanitarian crisis, viewed through the lens of information access and verification.
Regional Context. Analyzing the regional information ecosystem - how Horn of Africa and Red Sea dynamics are influenced, interests and information maneuvers of key actors.
The Media Blackout. We will tackle the critical issue of media silence: examining who benefits from the scarcity of reliable coverage, the strategic role of censorship or narrative control, and the significant stakes involved.
Technology in the Conflict. A detailed look at the practical application of modern technology in the conflict - from surveillance and propaganda distribution to the role of social media information campaigns.
Join us as we move beyond the headlines to analyze the information architectures.
