Nubian

Stateless

The Nubian people experienced a history of environmental displacement due to the construction of the Aswan Dam and the subsequent High Dam, which encroached upon their ancestral lands. The erection of these dams caused devastating flooding of their original homeland and resulted in the submersion of their cultural and archeological heritage. Today Nubians face an ongoing struggle to assert their national identity and showcase their significant cultural contributions, as much as their artifacts and ancient structures remain submerged beneath the water’s surface.

Presently, Nubians within Kenya find themselves trapped in a less-than-ideal predicament. Despite residing within Kenya for multiple generations, predating the establishment of Sudan as an independent nation, the Nubians are denied the rights accorded to citizens. They face institutionalized discrimination, as they cannot obtain the necessary documents to acquire identity cards or passports. Regrettably, the Kenyan census only classifies Nubians as “others,” failing to acknowledge their distinct clan nor provide official recognition of their cultural heritage.

The painting depicts a Nubian woman residing in a village south of the city of Aswan, situated on the left bank of the Nile River in Egypt. These Nubian villages, like the one portrayed in the artwork, have become popular tourist destinations due to their vibrantly painted buildings. The Nubians are renowned for their warm hospitality and unique language, which adds to the region’s allure.