UN humanitarian chief condemns impediments to aid delivery in Sudan
January 12, 2024 (GENEVA – UN Humanitarian Chief Martin Griffiths has expressed grave concern over the severe restrictions and obstacles hindering the delivery of humanitarian aid to millions of people in Sudan’s war-torn regions.
In a statement, Griffiths condemned the “layer upon layer of red tape” imposed on humanitarian supplies arriving at Port Sudan, the country’s main port. He highlighted the lengthy customs clearance procedures, which can take up to 18 days, and the additional inspections under military supervision.
“These delays are putting lives at risk,” Griffiths emphasized. “We need to see a significant increase in the speed of customs clearance and other procedures so that we can get aid to where it is needed most.”
The humanitarian chief also lamented the “fierce fighting” that has prevented aid convoys from reaching conflict-affected areas, particularly the capital city of Khartoum and the humanitarian hub of Wad Madani.
“These cities are in dire need of aid, but armed groups are preventing us from getting there,” Griffiths said. “This is unacceptable. Humanitarian workers must be able to do their jobs safely and without obstruction.”
Griffiths further expressed alarm over the multiple conflict lines and checkpoints that aid workers must cross. He highlighted cases of drivers being beaten and extorted for money, the looting of humanitarian supplies and warehouses, and the detention and killing of aid workers.
“These acts of violence are not only reprehensible, but they are also completely counterproductive,” Griffiths stressed. “Humanitarian workers are there to help the people of Sudan, not to harm them.”
The humanitarian chief called on all parties to the conflict in Sudan to take immediate steps to protect civilians, facilitate humanitarian access, and bring an end to the ongoing fighting.
“Millions of Sudanese lives hang in the balance,” Griffiths concluded. “We cannot afford to wait any longer. The time for action is now.”
(ST)