African Development Bank Reassures Support for Sudan Amid Civil Conflict

The meeting, held in Cairo, Egypt, due to the civil conflict in Sudan, focused on the Bank's current support for Sudan, identifying new priorities, and discussing humanitarian aid.

In light of Sudan's ongoing civil conflict, the African Development Bank (AfDB) has pledged to continue providing humanitarian and economic assistance to address the country's pressing needs. Rufus N. Darkortey, the Bank’s Executive Director representing The Gambia, Ghana, Liberia, Sierra Leone, and Sudan, reiterated this commitment during discussions with Sudan’s Finance Minister and Governor of the African Development Bank, Dr. Gebreil Ibrahim Mohamed Fediel.

The meeting, held in Cairo, Egypt, due to the civil conflict in Sudan, focused on the Bank's current support for Sudan, identifying new priorities, and discussing humanitarian aid. Darkortey acknowledged the severe impact of the conflict on the country and affirmed the Bank's dedication to supporting Sudan in reducing fragility, stabilizing the economy, and fostering recovery.

Key points of discussion included:

• Humanitarian Aid Access: Darkortey called for expanded access to aid nationwide, building on efforts to grant aid access in Darfur.

• Protection of Investments: He urged the protection of investments within Sudan financed by the Bank and development partners during the conflict.

• Outcome of Humanitarian Donor Conference: Darkortey praised the recent humanitarian donor conference in Paris, where $2.13 billion was pledged for Sudan, emphasizing the importance of utilizing these funds effectively.

Highlighting the Bank's current initiatives, Darkortey informed Governor Fediel about the support provided by the AfDB at both national and regional levels. This includes funding for projects such as the Sudan Emergency Wheat Production project and regional initiatives to support refugees and host communities in the Lake Chad Basin.

In response, Minister Fediel expressed gratitude for the Bank's robust support and emphasized the need for continued humanitarian assistance and technical support as peace is established. He also requested urgent agricultural support, including seeds and fertilizers, as the farming season approaches.

Governor Fediel pledged Sudan's commitment to strengthening the AfDB, including settling the country’s debt arrears and financially contributing to the ADF-17 replenishment cycle starting in 2025.

Both officials thanked the Bank’s Sudan Country Office for its leadership during this challenging period and expressed gratitude to the Egypt Office for hosting the mission. Darkortey also met with Sudan Country Office staff, affirming the Bank’s ongoing support for their welfare.

The AfDB's commitment underscores its role in supporting Sudan's path towards stability, recovery, and sustainable development amidst challenging circumstances.