Zalingei history

Foundation and First Mentions

Zalingei is a city with deep historical roots, located in the west of Sudan. Its origins are inextricably linked to the history of the Fur people, who have inhabited this region for centuries. Although the exact date of the city's founding is not recorded in written sources as a singular event, the settlement formed naturally over hundreds of years. Historically, this territory was an important part of the Sultanate of Darfur, an independent Islamic state that existed from the 17th century until the early 20th century.

Key Factors of Formation

• Geographical Location: The city emerged in the picturesque and fertile valley of the seasonal Wadi Azum river. Proximity to the Jebel Marra mountain range provided access to water resources, which was critical in the savannah conditions.
• Administrative Role: Due to its location, Zalingei traditionally served as an administrative centre for the western territories of the region, maintaining its significance both under the Sultans and during the period of Anglo-Egyptian administration.
• Strategic Location: The settlement developed as a connecting link between the mountain districts and the plains, which facilitated the concentration of the population and artisans.

Early Cultural and Economic Features

The economy of early Zalingei was based on developed agriculture. Unlike many arid areas of the region, the fertile soils around the city allowed for the cultivation of diverse crops, including sorghum, millet, and citrus fruits. Culturally, the city formed as the heart of the Fur people's traditions, preserving a unique way of life, social hierarchy, and architectural style characteristic of the Sultanate era.

Major Milestones in the City's History

• Mid-17th Century — The territory of the current city becomes part of the Sultanate of Darfur, becoming an important point on the region's trade routes.
• 1874 — The region comes under the management of the Egyptian administration, which contributes to the appearance of new administrative structures.
• 1898 — Restoration of the power of the Sultans of Darfur and the return of traditional forms of governance in the region.
• 1916 — Official inclusion of Darfur lands into Anglo-Egyptian Sudan, marking the beginning of the colonial stage of development.
• 1956 — The city becomes part of the independent Republic of Sudan following the end of foreign rule.
• 1957 — Launch of the large-scale "Jebel Marra" rural development project, the headquarters of which was located in Zalingei.
• 1994 — During administrative reform, the city is included in the newly formed West Darfur State.
• 1994 — Foundation of the public University of Zalingei, which became the main educational centre of the region.
• 2008 — A strategic planning unit is created at the university to develop the city's academic environment.
• 2011 — Opening of the Information and Statistics Centre, facilitating digitalisation and data recording in the region.
• 2012 — Zalingei receives the status of administrative capital of the newly created Central Darfur State.
• 2015 — Establishment of the Scientific Research Administration at the university to support local scholars and projects.

Stages of Development and Transformation

The development of the city of Zalingei is a process of gradual transformation from a traditional tribal centre into an important administrative and educational hub in the west of Sudan. The main changes in the city's appearance and status are associated with the following key events:

• Launch of the "Jebel Marra" Project (1957): The selection of the city as the headquarters for a large-scale rural development project became a powerful economic driver. This event attracted investment to the agricultural sector, created jobs, and secured the city's status as the "breadbasket" of the region through the introduction of new farming technologies.
• Foundation of the University of Zalingei (1994): The opening of a state university had immense cultural significance. The city turned into a centre of attraction for youth and intellectuals, which contributed to raising the level of education and the emergence of new social strata.
• Designation as State Capital (2012): Becoming the administrative centre of Central Darfur triggered urbanisation processes. The new status required the construction of government buildings, expansion of urban infrastructure, and improvement in the quality of public services.
• Development of Research Infrastructure (2000s): The creation of specialised units at the university, such as the Strategic Planning Centre and the Scientific Research Administration, strengthened the city's intellectual potential, allowing local challenges to be addressed at a scientific level.
• Digitalisation of Governance (2011): The opening of the Information and Statistics Centre was an important step in modernising the urban environment. This allowed for improved resource accounting and planning, integrating the city into modern information processes.
• Expansion of Trade Ties: Thanks to its location between the mountain range and the plains, the city strengthened its position as a key trading hub where agricultural produce is exchanged for industrial goods, supporting the local economy.

Architectural Appearance and Urban Environment

The architecture of Zalingei represents an organic combination of traditional Sudanese motifs and modern functional development. Unlike large metropolises, you will not find skyscrapers or opulent Baroque palaces here; the city's appearance was formed under the influence of savannah climatic conditions, available natural materials, and the practical needs of a growing administrative centre. The urban layout is closely linked to the natural landscape, stretching along the bed of the seasonal Wadi Azum river.

Stages of Urban Planning and Styles

The city's development can be divided into several key stages, each corresponding to a specific approach to construction:

• Traditional Architecture (Vernacular Style): The historical basis of residential development. This style is characterised by the use of local materials: mud brick, clay, and straw. Traditional houses often have a rectangular shape with flat roofs or a circular shape with conical thatched canopies, which helps maintain coolness indoors in the hot climate of Sudan.
• "Jebel Marra" Project Period (1950s–1970s): The time when the first permanent infrastructure appeared. During this period, administrative offices and housing for development project staff were built in the city. The style of these buildings can be described as utilitarian functionalism: simple geometric forms, concrete structures, wide verandas, and louvered windows for ventilation.
• Modern Administrative Style (since the 1990s): After the founding of the university and receiving the status of state capital, multi-storey buildings made of concrete and glass began to appear in the city. These are government institution buildings, academic blocks, and new commercial structures, distinguished by their conciseness and aspiration towards modernising the urban environment.

Landmark Buildings and Districts

The look of Zalingei is largely defined by several key objects that serve as centres of public life:

• University of Zalingei: The complex of university buildings is the architectural dominant of the modern city. The academic blocks stand out for their scale against the backdrop of low-rise residential development and serve as a symbol of the region's educational progress.
• Central Mosque: As in many Sudanese cities, the main mosque occupies an important place in the architectural ensemble. Its minarets rise above the city, serving as a landmark and the centre of spiritual life.
• City Market (Souq): The vibrant heart of the city, where architecture takes a back seat to the functionality of trading rows. It is a labyrinth of covered shops and open stalls, reflecting the traditional way of trade and serving as a meeting place for residents from all districts.

Distinguished Personalities of Zalingei

The character and cultural atmosphere of Zalingei are largely defined by the people who lived and worked here. Their contributions span various spheres: from preserving the ancient customs of the Fur people to developing modern education and protecting the unique nature of Sudan. Getting to know these names helps to deeply understand the social structure and values of this region.

• Amir Mohammed Sultan Bahr al-Din
  Role: Prince and Traditional Leader
  A prominent representative of the dynasty whose activities were aimed at preserving historical heritage. The palace associated with his name remains an important symbol of past architectural traditions and generational continuity.
• Dr. Tijani Sese
  Role: Statesman
  A renowned politician and administrator who played a significant role in the administrative development of the territory. His work focused on modernising governance systems and implementing infrastructure projects that contribute to economic growth.
• Shartai Arbab Ahmed Shatta
  Role: Tribal Chief (Shartai)
  An authoritative leader of the native administration system. His efforts were focused on preserving unique social customs and maintaining the traditional way of life of the communities.
• Dr. Mohammed Ishaq Haroun
  Role: Scholar, Vice-Chancellor of the University of Zalingei
  An academic figure who stood at the origins of higher education in the city. Under his leadership, the local university transformed into a key intellectual centre of the region.
• Ustaz Ibrahim Abulhayrat
  Role: Educator and Enlightener
  An outstanding school principal who dedicated his life to educating the younger generation. His pedagogical methods had a great influence on the formation of the local intelligentsia.
• Adib Abdulrahman Yusuf
  Role: Administrator and Manager
  Dealt with issues of civil administration and the development of city services. His initiatives were aimed at strengthening social institutions and increasing the efficiency of local government bodies.
• Dimangawi Fadl Sese
  Role: Traditional Ruler (Dimangawi)
  Bearer of an honorary historical title denoting high status in the hierarchy of the Fur people. His figure embodies respect for history and the cultural identity of the land.
• Sayed Ahmed Ibre
  Role: Nature Conservationist
  An enthusiast who dedicated his activities to protecting the unique flora and fauna of the Jebel Marra region. Thanks to his efforts, an understanding of the importance of preserving natural wealth has been strengthened in society.