The Australian Council for International Development (ACFID) has launched a consolidated appeal to support urgent humanitarian relief efforts in Sudan and neighboring South Sudan, where many millions of people are affected by violent conflict.
Humanitarian agencies including Australia for UNHCR, Global Mission Partners, Caritas, the Australian Red Cross, and the Australian Lutheran World Service have all launched public appeals for support for their work with regional partners in delivering life-saving humanitarian assistance such as water, sanitation, food, shelter and health.
Sudan has been in the grips of violent civil conflict between armed forces and paramilitaries for almost six months, and the United Nations has voiced increased concern at the escalating humanitarian situation. In that time there have been reports of conflict-related sexual violence, indiscriminate attacks against civilians, forced disappearances, extrajudicial killings, arms trafficking and more.
At least 9,000 people have been killed since the start of the conflict and over 12,000 injured, with the actual numbers likely to be much higher.
An estimated 5.5 million people have been displaced, and the UN has estimated that at least 25 million people will be in need of humanitarian assistance and protection.
At the same time, communities in Sudan are battling malnutrition and diseases due to heavy floods and rains. With the country’s health system on the brink of collapse and funding in a significant shortfall, lives are at stake.
The aid sector is working to offer assistance and protection to affected people and communities and continues to call on all parties to find a peaceful resolution, to uphold international law and protect civilians, including health and humanitarian aid workers.
All ACFID member appeals listed have been checked and meet ACFID Code of Conduct requirements.
ACFID encourages Australians to donate to organisations via our Consolidated Appeals Page which can be found here.
Quotes attributable to Marc Purcell, Chief Executive Officer of ACFID
“Donating cash is a fast and flexible way of supporting humanitarian assistance and means that goods can be sourced and bought locally”
“The humanitarian situation in Sudan is dire, and agencies are struggling to meet growing humanitarian needs as the conflict shows no sign of slowing down. Urgent funding is needed to meet the most basic of needs.”
“All parties to the conflict must pursue a political solution to the conflict, uphold international law, and stop attacks against civilians and humanitarian workers.”
“The warring parties must ensure that all humanitarian staff, facilities and supplies are protected from attacks and looting, so crucial humanitarian work can be carried out free from interference.”
Quote attributable to Amad Mohamed, Policy & Publications Officer at the Sudanese Australian Advocacy Network
“Tragically, the humanitarian situation in Sudan remains a harsh reality. Our contacts on the ground and family members caught in the ongoing conflict report a catastrophic humanitarian disaster. The number of internally displaced civilians affected by food insecurity has increased significantly, and there is a pressing need for essential aid. The situation of those forced to cross borders or residing in refugee camps in neighboring countries is dire, with an urgent need for necessities such as food and medical assistance.”
For more information or to arrange an interview, please contact media@acfid.asn.au or call 0401 721 064.
