UN unveils plans to aid millions impacted by Sudan crisis
February 5, 2024 (GENEVA) – The United Nations is launching its biggest humanitarian operation yet for Sudan, aiming to reach nearly 15 million people inside the war-torn country and support nearly 2.7 million refugees who fled to neighbouring nations.
The joint Humanitarian Response Plan (HRP) and Regional Refugee Response Plan (RRP) will be officially unveiled on Wednesday by UN Under-Secretary-General for Humanitarian Affairs Martin Griffiths and High Commissioner for Refugees Filippo Grandi.
“Nearly 10 months of conflict have taken an intolerable toll on the Sudanese people,” said UN spokesperson Stephane Dujarric. “More than half the population, some 25 million people, now require humanitarian assistance and protection.”
The ongoing hostilities have displaced over 6 million people within Sudan, many facing multiple displacements. Additionally, over 1.5 million civilians have crossed borders seeking refuge in neighbouring countries, placing further strain on already strained resources.
The RRP aims to support these refugees and their host communities in five neighbouring countries: the Central African Republic, Chad, Egypt, Ethiopia, and South Sudan.
“This is a complex and multifaceted crisis,” said Griffiths. “We need a coordinated and well-funded response to address the immediate needs of those affected, while also investing in longer-term solutions to build resilience and support recovery.”
The combined HRP and RRP require a staggering $1.3 billion in funding to meet the critical needs of millions caught in this crisis. The UN urges the international community to step up and support these vital response plans.
(ST)