Half a million affected by floods in Sudan – UN

September 24, 2007 (KHARTOUM) — At least 100,000 additional people have been directly affected by the latest wave of flooding in Sudan, bringing the total of those affected this year to well over half a million, the United Nations said in a report on Monday.

Most of the new damage is located in South Kordofan State in Central Sudan where at least 15,000 homes have been destroyed or damaged, over 20 people killed and some 65 others injured, according to the report.

The latest wave of flooding, which occurred between the last week of August and the first week of September, also destroyed food stocks and essential household supplies, the report added.

“We have worked closely with all partners, including Government and non-governmental organizations to ensure that contingency plans were in place,” said Ameerah Haq, UN Resident and Humanitarian Coordinator in Sudan.

Most parts of Sudan have been hit by floods since the beginning of July, inflicting serious casualties and material damages.

On Aug. 28, the UN launched a “Flash Appeal” to donors, requesting 20.2 million U.S. dollars of emergency relief for the people affected by the floods.

Only 1 million dollars has since been received by the UN, leaving a considerable funding gap of over 19 million dollars.

(Xinhua)