UAE donates $20 million to UNHCR for Sudan humanitarian crisis relief

ABU DHABI: The UAE has given the UNHCR $20 million to support humanitarian operations in Sudan and neighboring countries, state news agency WAM reported on Thursday.

This significant contribution is part of the UAE’s long-standing commitment to aiding Sudan, bringing the total amount provided by the UAE to Sudan to $3.5 billion over the past decade. This financial support underscores the UAE’s dedication to addressing the ongoing humanitarian crisis in Sudan, which has been exacerbated by conflict and displacement.

Lana Zaki Nusseibeh, the UAE’s assistant minister of foreign affairs for political affairs, highlighted the importance of strategic partnerships in tackling humanitarian challenges. She stated: “Our commitment to humanitarian causes is reinforced through strategic partnerships such as this one with UNHCR. Together, we can make a significant impact on the ground in Sudan, providing relief and hope to the most vulnerable. We remain steadfast in standing with the people of Sudan during this crisis. We look forward to working with other partners to ensure the commitments made in Paris are made tangible on the ground.”

Filippo Grandi, the UN high commissioner for refugees, emphasized the urgency of the situation in Sudan and the critical need for international support. He remarked: “The people of Sudan are enduring the dreadful consequences of this brutal war and need urgent support. State contributions are essential in providing much-needed lifesaving humanitarian assistance to vulnerable people in Sudan who were forced to flee.”

The $20 million contribution from the UAE is part of a broader commitment totaling $70 million, aimed at providing emergency assistance for Sudan through various UN agencies and humanitarian organizations. This pledge is in line with the UAE’s broader humanitarian efforts, which were highlighted earlier in April when the UAE committed $100 million at the International Humanitarian Conference for Sudan and Neighboring Countries.

This recent donation is expected to facilitate the provision of essential services, including food, shelter, and medical care, to those affected by the ongoing conflict in Sudan. The collaborative effort between the UAE and UNHCR is seen as a critical step in addressing the immediate needs of displaced individuals and supporting the long-term stability and recovery of the region.