Jack,
Welcome to the Forum and to the land of Kaskara fans. I can only add a little to what Teodor has said. The good part I can add is your sword was made by a smith named Awad Adam as indicated by his maker's mark, sort of like the number 40 or "Arbane" in Arabic. Adam worked in the Suq al Haddad or blacksmith's market/work shop in Kassala. According to my field notes he was said to be active when I was there in 1984 and made 3-4 blades/day. Just guessing, but he likely had a career of at least 10-15 years so I'd estimate your sword was made in 1970s at the earliest. Your sword looks well used and was certainly an item of daily dress and armament in a period of social unrest in Eastern Sudan following the construction of irrigated agricultural projects that displaced considerable populations.
Regards,
Ed
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