Published
Thu, May 4, 2023, 22:30
- The Australian artist—who is of Sudanese heritage—has cancelled this weekend's appearance at Belgian festival Horst Arts & Music.
Skin On Skin has fled Khartoum, the war-torn capital of Sudan, after fighting broke out last month.
The Australian DJ and producer, who is of Sudanese heritage, spent the past two weeks stuck in Khartoum. But earlier today, May 4th, he posted on Instagram to confirm that he and his family were able to reach a safe place across the southern border into South Sudan.
"That journey in itself was a risky and dangerous trip," he wrote. "We're mentally and physically exhausted at the moment but thankfully safe."
He added: "I'll be needing to take some time at home which means I won't be able to make it to Horst Arts & Music tomorrow. Thank you Horst and everyone, I appreciate you for understanding."
Skin On Skin was in the middle of a break following the busiest tour of his career. On March 16th, after clocking up dozens of shows in Europe, North America and beyond, he announced that he'd be taking some time off before returning in the spring.
On April 15th, a battle for control of Khartoum erupted between two opposing factions: the Rapid Support Forces (RSF), a paramilitary group formerly operated by the government of Sudan; and the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF), the military forces of the Republic of Sudan. The fighting began when the RSF allegedly took control of Khartoum National Airport, several military bases and the presidential palace.
According to Reuters, the battle rages on despite both factions having agreed to multiple ceasefires. The United Nations estimates that around 100,000 people have fled Sudan to neighbouring countries, such as South Sudan.
Read Skin On Skin's post in full.