Sudanese Government Reaffirms Commitment to Humanitarian Aid Amid Ongoing Conflict
The Sudanese government has reiterated its commitment to facilitating the delivery of humanitarian aid across the country, coinciding with a call from ten Western nations urging for immediate access to assistance for those in need. This renewed commitment comes in the wake of a devastating conflict that began in April 2023, which has resulted in significant humanitarian crises, including severe food insecurity affecting approximately 26 million people.
In a statement released by the "Technical Mechanism of the National Committee for Humanitarian Emergencies," the government announced the opening of several airports, including Kassala, Dongola, El Obeid, and Kadugli, to enable the transport of humanitarian aid. This decision was made following discussions between Sudan's Sovereignty Council Chairman, Abdel Fattah Al-Burhan, and South Sudan's President Salva Kiir Mayardit. The government emphasized its responsibility to alleviate the suffering of its citizens and called on the international community for both financial and material support.
The statement highlighted that there are currently six airports and seven land crossings available for international organizations to utilize for humanitarian efforts. Preparations are underway to begin flights transporting aid from Juba Airport to Kadugli Airport, specifically targeting the beleaguered South Kordofan State. The government also urged the international community to pressure rebel factions to cease actions that hinder humanitarian efforts, including the arrest of aid workers and attacks on civilians.
This announcement coincides with a joint statement from Western countries, including the United States, Britain, France, and Germany, which condemned the obstruction of humanitarian aid by both the Sudanese Armed Forces and the Rapid Support Forces. They called for an immediate and coordinated intensification of aid efforts and emphasized the need for safe and unhindered access to those in need. The statement underscored the obligations of both warring parties under international humanitarian law, particularly regarding the opening of border crossings, such as the one at Adré with Chad.
As the conflict continues to escalate, resulting in the death of tens of thousands and the displacement of over 11.3 million people, the humanitarian situation remains dire. The UN High Commissioner for Refugees has described the ongoing crisis as a "humanitarian catastrophe," with many fleeing to neighboring countries. Despite several failed negotiations aimed at ending the fighting, there is a glimmer of hope as the warring factions recently pledged to ensure safe humanitarian access following US-organized talks in Switzerland.
