UAE Announces $10.25 Million Aid For Sudanese Refugee Women In Chad

The United Arab Emirates has launched new humanitarian initiatives in Chad and pledged $10.25 million to the United Nations to aid Sudanese refugee women affected by the ongoing crisis. This move highlights the UAE's commitment to addressing urgent needs, particularly focusing on healthcare and psychosocial support for women and children in the region.

The $10.25 million will be distributed among various UN agencies specialising in women's assistance. The World Health Organisation will receive $3 million for maternal and child health services for Sudanese refugees in Chad. Another $2 million will go to the UN Population Fund for women's health and gender-based violence programmes. Additionally, $250,000 will support the UN World Food Programme’s gender-responsive initiatives.

Prev

Next

Reem bint Ebrahim Al Hashimy, Minister of State for International Cooperation, emphasised, "Through this additional contribution, the UAE reaffirms its unwavering commitment to supporting those affected by conflict, especially women and children, who are often the most vulnerable." She added that these efforts highlight the UAE's holistic approach to humanitarian aid.

Lana Nusseibeh, Assistant Minister of Foreign Affairs and Special Envoy of the Foreign Minister, visited Chad on 13th September. During her visit, she met with Sudanese women refugees, civil society leaders, and UN agencies involved in humanitarian support. Nusseibeh stated, "Our visit to Chad and our $10.25 million contribution reflects the UAE’s steadfast commitment to addressing the needs of women affected by the Sudan crisis."

Chad has registered 630,752 refugees since April 2023, with 89 percent being women and children. The UAE appreciates Chad's efforts in providing refuge for those fleeing conflict in Sudan. The UAE’s visit and funding are crucial in addressing these vulnerable populations' immediate needs.

Support from International Organisations

Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, WHO Director-General, acknowledged the UAE's support: "The conflict in Sudan has had a devastating effect on Sudanese women and children. WHO thanks the United Arab Emirates for its support." He stressed that this aid would help continue providing essential health services for refugees.

Sima Bahous, Executive Director of UN Women, highlighted that local women's organisations are crucial in supporting displaced women: "Women-led civil society organisations are driving efforts to protect and support them." She praised the UAE's substantial contribution to these local groups through the Women’s Peace and Humanitarian Fund.

Addressing Sexual Violence

Natalia Kanem, Executive Director of UNFPA, pointed out that sexual violence is a war crime affecting communities deeply: "Sudanese women and girls who have taken refuge in Chad urgently need unimpeded access to life-saving sexual and reproductive health services." She expressed gratitude for the UAE's contribution which will help reach more survivors.

Filippo Grandi, UN High Commissioner for Refugees, also thanked the UAE: "We are grateful to the United Arab Emirates for their financial contribution." He urged other donors to mobilise funds urgently needed to assist Sudanese refugees in Chad.

Field Visits Highlight Challenges

The UAE delegation conducted fact-finding visits to humanitarian sites such as a refugee assistance centre and Abéché Field Hospital built by the UAE. These visits aimed at understanding challenges in aid distribution amidst conflict and famine while ensuring effective targeting of aid.

François Batalingaya, Chad’s Resident and Humanitarian Coordinator said: "We express our deep appreciation for the UAE's generous commitment of $10.25 million." He noted that direct engagement on ground demonstrates meaningful dedication to addressing urgent needs.

Ongoing Humanitarian Efforts

The UAE has been a leading contributor of humanitarian aid since the crisis began. It has provided $230 million in support including 10,000 tonnes of food and medical supplies through 159 relief flights. In April 2024 at Paris Donors Conference it committed another $100 million with $70 million directed towards international humanitarian organisations.

This initiative underscores how vital international cooperation is in addressing crises effectively while empowering affected communities towards stability.

With inputs from WAM