Sudan inks interim programme for disarmament and demobilization
May 21, 2006 (KHARTOUM) — The interim Disarmament, Demobilization and Reintegration (DDR) programme in Sudan was signed today on the part of the DDR Committee by its Chairman, Sulaf Eddine Saleh, and on the part of the UN by representative of the UN permanent delegate to Sudan.
Representative of the Presidency Minister, Ali Ahmed Hamid, pointed out that Sudan has witnessed major development after signing the peace agreement and the signing of the interim DDR programme in the north is representing an important step towards handling the issues of the demobilized combatants.
He expressed appreciation to the UN and donors, which offered funding to this programme, besides the international and non-governmental organizations.
Salih said that the interim DDR programme includes preparatory programme, establishment of partnerships and tackling the cases of handicapped, women, elders and combatants who were affected by the war, pointing out that the DDR programme will start in January 2007 in an expanded way in collaboration with other partners.
He added that the signing of the programme includes activities which amount to 70 million dollars, pledged by donors. On his part, the UN representative appreciated the efforts of cooperation between the Government and the UN, pointing out that the signing of the programme would boost the Comprehensive Peace Agreement.
(ST)