IN a concerted effort to address the humanitarian crisis gripping war-torn Sudan, donors pledged over 2 billion euros ($2.13bn) during a conference in Paris, announced French President Emmanuel Macron on Monday. The conference, held on the first anniversary of a conflict described by aid workers as devastating yet overlooked, aimed to mobilise support for millions on the brink of famine.
Efforts to alleviate the suffering of those affected by the conflict have been hampered by ongoing clashes between the Sudanese army and the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF), along with logistical challenges imposed by the warring factions. Additionally, competing global crises have diverted attention and resources from Sudan, further complicating relief efforts.
‘The world is busy with other countries,’ remarked Bashir Awad, a resident of Omdurman, underscoring the urgency of the situation and the resilience of local communities forced to fend for themselves amidst the chaos.
Major contributors to the aid effort included the European Union with a pledge of 350 million euros, alongside commitments from France, Germany, the United States, and Britain. Speaking at the conclusion of the conference, Macron stressed the importance of coordinated international action to address the conflict and curb external support for the warring parties.
‘Unfortunately, the amount mobilised today is still probably less than was mobilised by several powers since the start of the war to help one or the other side kill each other,’ Macron lamented, highlighting the magnitude of the challenge.
As regional powers vie for influence in Sudan, allegations of foreign involvement in arming the RSF persist. Despite denials from both sides, UN experts find these claims credible, raising concerns about the escalation of violence and instability in the region.
The conflict, stemming from power struggles preceding a planned transition, has left infrastructure in ruins, displaced over 8.5 million people, and pushed many to the brink of starvation. German Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock warned of a potential catastrophe, with up to 1 million people facing death by hunger if urgent action is not taken.
The United Nations, seeking $2.7bn for aid within Sudan and an additional $1.4bn for neighbouring countries hosting refugees, faces challenges in gaining access to those in need on the ground. Accusations of aid obstruction and looting by both sides further complicate relief efforts, underscoring the urgency of ensuring that pledged funds translate into tangible assistance for those most affected.
Amidst allegations of war crimes and reports of escalating violence, the situation remains precarious. Local activists reported mass displacement and casualties in al-Fashir, with fears that any attack on the city could trigger wider intercommunal conflict in Darfur, warned UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres.
As Sudan teeters on the edge of a worsening crisis, international efforts must be redoubled to avert further suffering and facilitate a path towards peace and stability in the region.