The UN has welcomed the Sudan government’s extension of the Adre border crossing operations for three months, essential for humanitarian aid delivery to conflict-affected regions, especially Darfur. Despite recent successes, the UN stresses the need for increased funding, with the Sudan humanitarian appeal only partially financed, posing risks to ongoing relief efforts.
The United Nations’ top humanitarian official in Sudan has expressed appreciation for the Sudanese government’s decision to extend the operation of the vital Adre border crossing for an additional three months. This extension, effective as of Wednesday, is crucial for facilitating the flow of humanitarian assistance from Chad into conflict-ridden areas of Sudan, particularly in Darfur.
Clementine Nkweta-Salami, the UN Resident and Humanitarian Coordinator in Sudan, stated, “Humanitarians in Sudan welcome this decision as the Adre border crossing is a critical lifeline for hundreds of thousands of vulnerable people across the country, especially in Darfur.” The Adre crossing is essential for supplying emergency food, nutrition, medical supplies, shelter, and other necessary assistance to those affected by the ongoing violence and humanitarian crisis in the region.
Since the reopening of the Adre crossing in mid-August, at least 377 aid trucks have delivered supplies to approximately 1.4 million individuals facing acute hunger and malnutrition, highlighting its significance within the broader humanitarian operations in Sudan. However, despite these efforts, UN agencies are urgently calling for additional funding to sustain and bolster these operations. As of late 2024, the Sudan humanitarian appeal, amounting to $2.7 billion, remains only 57% funded.
During the first nine months of 2024, humanitarian agencies have provided assistance to about 12.6 million people throughout Sudan. Moreover, the persistent conflict continues to exacerbate needs across the region, underscoring the importance of securing increased financial support to prevent further humanitarian crises.
The humanitarian situation in Sudan has deteriorated significantly following the outbreak of conflict between government forces and the Rapid Support Forces that began in April of the previous year. This internal strife has resulted in widespread dislocation of populations and has severely impacted the provision of essential services. In this context, the Adre border crossing has emerged as a lifeline for delivering much-needed humanitarian aid to affected regions, particularly in Darfur, where the needs are greatest due to ongoing violence and food insecurity.
The extension of the Adre border crossing operation is a critical development for the humanitarian response in Sudan, enabling continued aid delivery to millions in dire need. However, the ongoing conflict and funding shortfalls pose substantial challenges that necessitate immediate action to enhance support and prevent deepening humanitarian crises in the region. The call for additional funding is more urgent than ever to sustain relief efforts and support the vulnerable population in Sudan.
Original Source: news.un.org
