The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has delivered a significant portion of its earlier commitment to Sudan, disbursing $70 million in critical humanitarian aid. This substantial contribution fulfills a large part of the $100 million pledge made by the Emirates at the International Humanitarian Conference for Sudan and Neighbouring Countries held in April.
Direct Support for Urgent Needs
The UAE’s aid package is being channeled through key international organizations, ensuring it reaches those most in need. A $5 million allocation will directly support the Sudan Humanitarian Fund (SHF), managed by the United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA). This fund plays a vital role in coordinating relief efforts and ensuring a unified response to the crisis.
Boosting Food Security and Livelihoods
Recognizing the critical role of food security in mitigating famine, the UAE is also directing $5 million to the UN’s Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO). This funding will support the “Mitigating Famine in Sudan” project, a year-long initiative designed to provide emergency assistance to vulnerable communities.
The FAO project will focus on supplying 275,000 smallholder farmers and pastoralist families with essential resources, including seeds, livestock, and veterinary care. This vital support has the potential to benefit over 1.3 million Sudanese facing food insecurity.
“Averted Disaster, Not a Solved Crisis”
Lana Nusseibeh, Assistant Minister of Foreign Affairs and Envoy for the UAE Foreign Minister, emphasized the urgency of the humanitarian situation. “While this funding helps avert an immediate disaster, the crisis in Sudan is far from over,” she stated. “The UAE’s contribution is a critical step towards alleviating suffering and promoting long-term food security.”
Nusseibeh highlighted the importance of bolstering agricultural capacity. “By equipping farmers and pastoralists with the resources they need, we can empower them to rebuild their livelihoods and ensure a sustainable food supply for the future,” she explained.
FAO Commends UAE’s Leadership
Mr. Abdul Hakim Al Waer, Assistant Director-General and Regional Representative of FAO for the Near East and North Africa, applauded the UAE’s leadership. “This generous contribution significantly bolsters our efforts to address food insecurity in Sudan,” he said. “The UAE’s commitment allows us to deliver vital aid to millions, enhance agricultural productivity, and build resilience within vulnerable communities.”
Beyond Immediate Relief: A Call for Peace
While addressing immediate humanitarian needs is a priority, the UAE also reiterated its call for a peaceful resolution to the conflict in Sudan. Nusseibeh emphasized the need for an immediate and lasting ceasefire, stating that military solutions cannot pave the way for lasting peace. She urged all parties to return to the negotiating table and work towards a political resolution that fosters national consensus and civilian participation in the government.
The UAE’s significant financial contribution and its long-term vision for a peaceful Sudan demonstrate its commitment to playing a leading role in resolving the humanitarian crisis.
