Mahasin Al-Hussein: A Journalist with a Citizen’s Identity Card

Dr Salwa Hassan Siddig
Over the past decade, the term citizen journalist has gained currency, reflecting the increasingly close relationship between the profession and the public. This has become particularly evident with the spread of social media and the opening up of communication channels. Indeed, the distinction between a citizen journalist and a journalist who is also a citizen has become little more than a fine line, shaped by the legal and ethical responsibilities imposed by circumstances and the requirements of the profession.
Amid this surge of activity, certain names shine like gold. It is hard to tell whether they are citizen journalists or professional journalists who are, above all, citizens.
You find them everywhere, in all four directions. Their places are always assured: officials miss them, ordinary passers-by look out for them, and everyone expects something from them. They are the salt of the earth, without which nothing grows or blossoms. Among these outstanding men and women is our colleague Mahasin Al-Hussein, of the Sudan News Agency (SUNA). Whenever she appears, she brings with her the very essence of the journalistic profession.
Everyone has a story to tell about something Mahasin has done for them. She may point you towards an opportunity or take your concerns to others on your behalf. Either way, her work does good.
Mahasin Al-Hussein Benjamin is made of the very fabric of this country. She belongs to that community of media professionals who have always taken the lead without waiting for recognition or reward. The circumstances of this war have put her to the test, reaffirming what was already clear: her extraordinary dedication and selfless devotion to serving her country.
I was particularly pleased to see journalist Mahasin Al-Hussein honoured by organisations and friends who recognise her worth and appreciate her unwavering, unconditional contribution. Her commitment began long ago, through her service to colleagues at the news agency, continued through her work with the Journalists’ Union, and now extends to Egypt, the land of the Nile.
Despite the distances and the difficulties of getting around, nothing escapes her attention. Whenever a Sudanese official sets foot in Egypt, Mahasin will almost certainly have gone to extraordinary lengths to interview them and hear what they have to say. She is invariably there, wherever service and selflessness are to be found.
Even colleagues from north of the Nile have found their way to her, and she has become one of their sources. Everyone knows how to reach her, and everyone trusts that her efforts are driven solely by a desire to serve the people, the country and the profession.
My thanks go to everyone who came up with the idea of honouring our dear friend Mahasin, and to those who so thoughtfully organised and carried it out. Recognition, when it comes at the right time, can be a healing balm.
We wish you well, dear journalist, who has upheld the values of your profession through your own exemplary conduct, bringing it greater honour and distinction. May we once again be brought together beneath the skies of Sudan, warmed by its blazing sun.

Shortlink: https://sudanhorizon.com/?p=19848