The situation in Sudan is, without a doubt, a dire one – and it’s about time someone stepped up to do something about it. That someone, it seems, is the United Arab Emirates. At their initiative, a high-level humanitarian conference is set to take place this Friday, February 14, as part of the 38th Summit of the African Union. But it’s not just about speeches and empty promises – the Emirati authorities are actually putting their money where their mouth is, announcing a substantial contribution to help the Sudanese people.
The Conference and Its Goals
Organized in cooperation with the African Union, the IGAD, and Ethiopia, this conference aims to mobilize the support and financing needed to take concrete measures to help Sudan. An official from the UAE announced that they’ll be contributing $200 million to meet humanitarian needs in the country. It’s a significant amount, to say the least. The UAE is also calling for a “humanitarian pause” during Ramadan, which is just around the corner. Given the devastating fratricidal war that’s been going on since April 2023, it’s a request that makes a lot of sense. The clashes between the paramilitaries of the Fast Support Forces and the army have left tens of thousands dead and over 12 million people displaced.
A Humanitarian Crisis of Epic Proportions
The famine in Sudan has already affected five regions, including three in northern Darfur, and is expected to spread to five more districts in May. It’s no wonder the UN has described the situation as “the worst humanitarian crisis in the world.” The Minister of State for International Cooperation at the UAE’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs acknowledged that the war has lasted too long and caused immense suffering. The UAE, along with its partners, is hoping to provide assistance without obstacles to those who need it most – especially women and children, who are suffering in ways that are just unprecedented.
A History of Support
The UAE has been one of the main contributors to humanitarian aid for Sudan and Africa, and it’s not just talk. They’ve assigned 70% of their commitment – $100 million – to the UN and its humanitarian organizations to support aid efforts in Sudan. They’ve also donated $8 million to the World Health Organization. Last year, the UAE established an air bridge with Sudan and Chad to provide support and assistance to the Sudanese people. Since the beginning of the conflict, they’ve provided $130 million to support the humanitarian response, as well as 9,500 tons of food and medical supplies. It’s clear that the UAE is committed to making a difference in Sudan – and they’re setting a good example for others to follow. Will it be enough to bring about real change, though? Only time will tell.