Saudi Arabia’s $1.4 million to fight malnutrition in Sudan, South Sudan

Rédaction Africa Links 24 with umajulius
Published on 2024-04-16 09:58:55

On April 16, 2024, the World Food Programme (WFP) announced that it had signed two agreements with the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, totaling $1.4 million, to address malnutrition in Sudan and South Sudan. This funding is aimed at assisting over 35,000 children and pregnant or breastfeeding mothers who have been affected by conflict, economic instability, and climatic events in the two countries.

In Sudan, where nearly 29,000 individuals have been impacted by the ongoing conflict, the funding will provide essential nutritional support to those in need. Similarly, in South Sudan, where approximately 6,000 people are facing a humanitarian crisis fueled by conflict, economic difficulties, and climate-related challenges, the assistance will help address the urgent nutritional needs of the affected population.

Michael Dunford, the WFP Regional Director for the East Africa region, emphasized the critical importance of this funding, especially as Sudan faces the prospect of becoming home to one of the world’s most severe hunger crises. With reports already emerging of children dying from starvation, Dunford stressed the necessity of supporting nutrition programs to prevent further loss of life and mitigate the long-term effects of malnutrition in children.

The agreements were signed by Cindy McCain, WFP’s Executive Director, and Dr. Abdullah Al Rabeeah, the Royal Court Advisor and Supervisor General of the King Salman Humanitarian Aid and Relief Centre, in Paris. Dr. Abdullah Al Moallem, the Director of KSrelief’s Health and Environmental Aid Department, reaffirmed the commitment to supporting vulnerable populations in Sudan and South Sudan and promoting healthier and more resilient communities. The initiatives funded by the $1.4 million will provide emergency nutritional aid to children, pregnant women, and lactating mothers, ensuring access to vital food and medical assistance to combat famine and malnutrition in both countries.

In Sudan, the situation is dire, with 4.9 million children under five, as well as pregnant and breastfeeding women, facing acute malnutrition—a 22% increase from the previous year. Alarmingly, 730,000 children in Sudan are reportedly suffering from severe acute malnutrition, highlighting the urgency of the situation. Similarly, in South Sudan, an estimated 1.6 million children and 870,000 pregnant and breastfeeding women are expected to experience malnutrition this year according to the UN’s projections.

Overall, the agreements with the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia represent a significant step in addressing the pressing issue of malnutrition in Sudan and South Sudan. The funding will not only provide immediate relief to those in need but also contribute to building a stronger and more resilient future for the communities in both countries. Through collaborative efforts and sustained support, the WFP and its partners aim to combat hunger, prevent malnutrition, and safeguard the health and wellbeing of vulnerable populations in the region.

Read the original article on Sudan Tribune