Japan donates $4.22m to help stabilize communities in Sudan
May 4, 2021 (KHARTOUM) – The Japanese government has committed an additional $4.22m towards the United Nations Development Programme’s (UNDP) peace, stability, and economic recovery efforts across seven states of Sudan.
In line with the priorities of Sudan’s Transitional Government and the mandate of the UN Integrated Transitional Assistance Mission in Sudan (UNITAMS), the Japanese donation will reportedly benefit 45,000 vulnerable people.
The Japanese ambassador to Sudan, Takashi Hattori outlined the new priorities, which, he said, will assist 15 of Sudan’s most at-risk localities in Blue Nile, White Nile, South Kordofan, West Kordofan, North Kordofan, Sennar and Khartoum State.
“It is imperative not only to fulfil the urgent needs of these people, but also provide underlying foundations to increase the sustainability of their lives by enhancing productivity and skills”, said Takashi.
“Activities in this project, for example livelihood support that will assist with ongoing economic challenges including COVID-19, and help build better the resilience of communities, are the ultimate goal of the Transitional Government,” he added.
The Special Representative of the Secretary-General to Sudan and Head of UNITAMS, Volker Perthes said stability at the community level is crucial to peace and development.
“This generous contribution from Japan will ensure people are further supported by the UN with real opportunities via rural development, access to basic services and peacebuilding,” said Perthes.
“The contribution from Japan complements UNITAMS’ efforts with the UN Country Team to strengthen coordination of peace-building work via the Sudan Peacemaking, Peacebuilding and Stabilization Programme,” he added.
Delivered in partnership with Sudan Disarmament, Demobilization and Reintegration Commission (SDDRC), rural development will reportedly focus on access to food and services through environmentally sustainable activities like rain-fed agriculture, while infrastructure and assets will include markets, roads, tractors, harvesters, and solar technology.
For his part, SDDRC Commissioner General, Maj. Gen. Abdul Rahman Abdul Hamid appreciated and thanked Japan and UNDP for being consistent and trusted partners.
“With this additional support, we will be able to substantially contribute to stability and development, and assist many of the most vulnerable,” he stressed.
(ST)