UAE Commits US$7 Million To Support UNICEF's Humanitarian Work In Sudan And South Sudan

The UAE Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MoFA) has announced a significant agreement with the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) to provide US$7 million for humanitarian efforts in Sudan and South Sudan. This agreement allocates US$6 million for UNICEF’s operations in Sudan and US$1 million for activities in South Sudan, reinforcing the UAE’s commitment to addressing severe humanitarian crises in these regions.

Reem bint Ebrahim Al Hashimy, Minister of State for International Cooperation, stated, "The UAE is deeply committed to supporting the most vulnerable populations affected by conflict, particularly children who are bearing the brunt of the crisis in Sudan and South Sudan. Through this agreement with UNICEF, we are reinforcing our dedication to providing life-saving assistance and ensuring that children have access to the essential services they desperately need."

The ongoing conflict in Sudan has created a dire situation, especially for children. An estimated 13.6 million children urgently need assistance due to the escalating violence. Over six million people have been displaced, more than half of whom are children, making it the largest child displacement crisis globally.

This contribution from the UAE will directly support UNICEF’s initiatives to ensure that children and women in both countries have access to primary health care, quality water, and education through various channels, including early learning programmes. The UAE's participation in international efforts highlights its commitment to aiding those in need.

Over the past decade, the UAE has provided over US$3.5 billion in aid to Sudan. Since the conflict began in 2023, it has delivered US$230 million in humanitarian aid and dispatched 159 relief flights carrying more than 10,000 tonnes of food, medical supplies, and other relief items. Additionally, two field hospitals established by the UAE in Chad have treated over 45,000 people.

Call for Peace

The UAE continues to advocate for an immediate ceasefire and an end to violence as a primary demand. The country emphasises that there is no military solution and urges all parties involved to seek peaceful resolutions through dialogue. The UAE remains engaged with relevant stakeholders to support processes aimed at achieving a lasting settlement and forming a government with civilian participation.

"The UAE will continue to stand by the brotherly Sudanese people in their time of need," added Reem bint Ebrahim Al Hashimy. "We are working with international partners to address urgent humanitarian challenges." This commitment was recently demonstrated by the UAE's role as an observer in Geneva talks focused on ensuring aid delivery to those most vulnerable.

The agreement between MoFA and UNICEF underscores a broader effort by the UAE to alleviate suffering caused by conflicts. By supporting critical services like health care and education, the UAE aims to improve living conditions for affected populations while advocating for peace and stability.

With inputs from WAM