Khartoum

Khartoum is the capital of Sudan and Khartoum State. It is located at the confluence of the White Nile, flowing north from Lake Victoria, and the Blue Nile, flowing west from Lake Tana in Ethiopia. The two rivers meet to form the main Nile.

Khartoum is a major center of commerce, finance, and transportation in Sudan. Its metropolitan area includes Khartoum North (also known as Bahri) and Omdurman, forming a large urban conurbation.

History:

The city was founded in 1821 by Ibrahim Pasha, the son of Muhammad Ali, as an outpost for the Egyptian army. It quickly grew into a center for trade, including the slave trade, and became the administrative center of the Anglo-Egyptian Sudan. General Charles Gordon was appointed Governor-General of Sudan in 1877 and was famously besieged and killed in Khartoum in 1885 by the Mahdist forces. The city was retaken by British forces under Lord Kitchener in 1898.

Geography and Climate:

Khartoum has a hot desert climate, with high temperatures year-round. Rainfall is scarce and occurs mostly during the summer months. The city's location at the confluence of the two Niles is a defining geographical characteristic, influencing its water supply and local agriculture.

Demographics:

Khartoum is a diverse city with a mix of ethnic and religious groups. The majority of the population is Muslim. Arabic is the main language spoken. The city has experienced significant population growth in recent decades, largely due to migration from rural areas.

Economy:

Khartoum's economy is based on commerce, banking, and industry. Key industries include printing, food processing, and petroleum refining. The city is also home to numerous government offices and educational institutions.

Culture:

Khartoum is a center of Sudanese culture. The city is home to several museums, including the National Museum of Sudan, which houses a collection of Sudanese artifacts. Traditional Sudanese music and dance are also popular forms of cultural expression.

Education:

Khartoum is a major educational center in Sudan. It is home to several universities, including the University of Khartoum, which is one of the oldest and most prestigious universities in the country. Other notable institutions include Sudan University of Science and Technology and Omdurman Islamic University.