Egypt has launched its fourth dedicated train service to help Sudanese nationals in the country return home voluntarily, underscoring the government’s focus on humanitarian cooperation with its southern neighbour.
Fourth Trip in an Ongoing Effort
The National Railway Authority confirmed that Train No. 1940 left Cairo’s Ramses Station at 11:00 a.m. on Sunday, bound for Aswan’s Al-Sadd Al-Aali River Port. From there, passengers would continue by river transport into Sudan. The journey was set to conclude the same night at 11:10 p.m.
This marks the fourth time Egyptian authorities have arranged such a trip, part of a wider initiative ordered by Kamel El-Wazir, Deputy Prime Minister for Industrial Development and Minister of Industry and Transport. The move is rooted in what officials repeatedly describe as “historic and fraternal” ties between the two nations.
One sentence says it plainly: Egypt isn’t just moving trains — it’s moving goodwill.
Comfort and Logistics for a Long Journey
The Railway Authority said special care was taken to make the journey more manageable. Beyond the air-conditioned third-class coaches, an additional luggage carriage was attached to handle passengers’ personal belongings.
For many Sudanese travellers, these aren’t just suitcases — they’re pieces of a life built in Egypt.
Officials also coordinated boarding and customs procedures at Ramses Station to reduce waiting times and confusion. Staff were on hand to guide passengers, help families with children, and ensure they were seated comfortably before departure.
A Humanitarian Response to Displacement
The voluntary return program comes amid ongoing instability in Sudan, which has forced many citizens to seek temporary refuge in Egypt. While some have found work and community there, others have been waiting for the right moment — and the right means — to head back.
Egypt’s government has said these trains are not part of any forced repatriation, stressing the voluntary nature of the departures. Officials describe it as a bridge for those who want to go home but face logistical and financial hurdles.
-
Departure point: Cairo Ramses Station
-
Destination: Al-Sadd Al-Aali River Port, Aswan
-
Transfer: River transport to Sudan
-
Duration: Around 12 hours by rail
Symbolism Beyond the Tracks
These trains are more than a travel option. For Cairo, they’re a visible statement of solidarity — a reminder that the relationship between Egypt and Sudan has deep historical roots stretching from trade to culture to shared struggles.
Observers note that such initiatives can help maintain bilateral goodwill, especially during times when political tensions in the region could overshadow cooperation. For the passengers, the symbolism might be simpler: a safe, organised way to reach home.
Looking Ahead to More Services
Authorities haven’t said how many more trips might follow, but insiders suggest the program will continue as long as there’s demand. Each train so far has been fully booked, a sign that many Sudanese still see Egypt as a reliable partner in their difficult return.
Some passengers at Ramses Station reportedly expressed relief and gratitude — not just for the transport, but for the dignity with which it was arranged. That’s no small thing for people whose lives have been in limbo.
