UAE Allocates $70M to UN Agencies for Sudan Crisis Relief
The UAE urged an immediate ceasefire and return to the political process in Sudan to meet the people's aspirations for development and prosperity.
DUBAI, United Arab Emirates — The United Arab Emirates is allocating 70% of the $100 million it pledged in April for Sudan humanitarian aid to U.N. agencies and organizations working to alleviate the crisis in the African nation, writes Winston Mwale.
The UAE's foreign ministry said Tuesday the assistance will go to the U.N. Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs, the World Food Program, U.N. refugee agency, Food and Agriculture Organization and World Health Organization.
Minister of State Reem al-Hashimy said the aid "reflects the UAE's commitment to support the Sudanese people" and address challenges including food insecurity and health needs.
The UAE has operated an air bridge with Sudan and neighboring Chad since fighting erupted in April, providing $130 million in aid and 9,500 metric tons of food and medical supplies via 148 relief flights. It also sent a ship with 1,000 tons of supplies.
The UAE set up field hospitals in Chad's cities of Amdjarass and Abéché for Sudanese refugees, treating over 29,000 patients so far.
It's also provided food aid for Sudanese in South Sudan.
U.N. officials thanked the Emirati contribution, with humanitarian chief Martin Griffiths calling it vital "lifesaving support" amid Sudan's "unprecedented crisis."
The UAE urged an immediate ceasefire and return to the political process in Sudan to meet the people's aspirations for development and prosperity.