Watch your step, Khawaja

Author's introduction

In October 1964 a series of strikes and demonstrations compelled the military government of President Ibrahim Abboud to resign. In Khartoum crowds of people poured out into the streets and made their way to the large open space in front of the Republican Palace.

From my flat nearby I walked to observe this outpouring of Sudanese pride and joy, a lone foreigner. In my path stood a man holding a bicycle, with a young boy sitting on the crossbar. As I approached the boy called out, “Ya khawaja, a’mal hisabak - Hey you white European, watch your step!”

This book records some of what I saw and learned during eight years with the Sudan Ministry of Education, 1958-1966. For five years I taught English in Port Sudan and Khartoum Boys Secondary Schools, with short spells of duty in Wad Medani, El Obeid, Aroma and Wau. I was then appointed Lecturer in English at the new Higher Teacher Training Institute in Omdurman. During school and college short holidays I visited other parts of Sudan, often by invitation of friends. During annual leave I explored neighbouring countries. The coloured pictures were taken with my camera.

I write with candour and affection, and also with awareness that the khawaja must still watch his step. I thank those who have helped in this production. Where there are errors, I am open to correction. I thank God for the friendships and adventure of those teaching years and my many return visits. The book comes with warm wishes to the families of both Sudans, as they face today’s challenges and opportunities. If it encourages young khawajas in their desire to relate helpfully to the Arab and African world, so much the better.

Peter Everington, London, July 2016

With special thanks to Barry Elbashir who first made this book available online. See https://sites.google.com/view/petereverington