ICRC appeals for funds to scale up humanitarian action

Sudan: ICRC appeals for funds to scale up humanitarian action

Khartoum (ICRC) – Today the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) is asking donors for an additional 25 million Swiss francs (about 26 million dollars), in addition to the five million francs already budgeted, to finance its assistance and protection work for people affected by conflict in Sudan.

“We're happy to be able to take up our work again,” said James Reynolds, head of the ICRC delegation in Sudan. “A constructive dialogue with the authorities, along with a review of the agreement between us and the Republic of the Sudan, has made possible this resumption of operations and we hope that the Sudanese authorities will give us their continued support. This appeal will enable us to help the most vulnerable people affected by conflict.”

Since the suspension of ICRC work was lifted last September, the organization has carried out a number of surveys to assess needs and is now steadily boosting its capacity. In North and South Darfur states in western Sudan, delegates have so far distributed food to over 48,000 conflict-affected people. More than 21,000 people have received essential household items, including kitchen sets, farming tools, mosquito nets, tarpaulins, blankets and jerrycans.

The additional funding will enable the ICRC to purchase agricultural tools, seed and food to support farmers in areas affected by conflict, carry out livestock vaccinations and improve access to drinking water in rural areas of Darfur.

The organization will continue working closely with the Sudanese Red Crescent Society, its main partner in the country. Joint teams are set to assist people who have been separated from loved ones during conflict and want to reconnect with them. In its unique role as a neutral intermediary, the ICRC stands ready to facilitate the handover of detainees It will also continue to promote knowledge of international humanitarian law amongst the armed forces and various armed groups. Support for the National Authority for Prosthetics and Orthotics in the form of equipment and training will ensure that high-quality treatment is made available to disabled people. And the ICRC plans to maintain its support for seven primary health-care facilities in Darfur, providing medical supplies and training for staff.

ENDS

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