Persisting in the digital age
Shamil Rafat Hamawandi: The last newsagent of Khanaqin
KHANAQIN — In Khanaqin, Shamil Rafat Hamawandi stands as the last newsagent, deeply committed to a profession that is fading into history. Born in 1967, Hamawandi’s lifelong passion for learning and sharing information has anchored him to this vanishing vocation.
“I am the only newspaper vendor in Khanaqin now. It’s a personal mission for me, and I genuinely enjoy it. I once owned a bookstore and loved seeking out information,” Hamawandi shared with 964media.
Having owned a bookstore in Baghdad post-2000, Hamawandi was deeply embedded in the world of books and newspapers. However, the sectarian violence that escalated in Iraq post-2003 forced him to relocate to Khanaqin in 2007, where he continued his work amidst the country’s tumultuous shift from Baathist rule. This period was marked by sectarian conflicts between Shiite and Sunni factions, leading to a civil war from 2006 to 2008, despite the presence of the Iraqi government and U.S.-led coalition forces.
Despite the modest income from his work, Hamawandi’s dedication persists. He often travels long distances on foot or by motorcycle, driven by his passion. “Each newspaper I sell for 1,000 dinars ($0.76) brings a small profit, but it’s not about the money; it’s about enlightening the community,” he stated.
The rise of social media has significantly dwindled his readership, now mostly limited to older individuals who retain a preference for printed news. “I wish the younger generation would recognize the value of newspapers. Unfortunately, they are preoccupied with social media,” Hamawandi lamented.
He receives deliveries of around ten different newspapers from Baqubah, including titles like Al-Sabah, Zaman, Dustor, Al-Zaura, and Tareek Al-Shaab. He then distributes these papers to local establishments and shops that maintain news subscriptions, playing a crucial role in keeping the community informed.
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