The World Bank has approved two projects totaling $182 million to improve health services and provide emergency safety nets in Sudan. These initiatives aim to address the needs of communities affected by conflict and natural disasters.
Sudan's ongoing conflict has led to significant humanitarian challenges, with over 11 million people displaced, including 3 million who have fled to neighboring countries. The country's economy has suffered, with GDP contracting by 20% in 2023 and 15% in 2024. Additionally, inflation and food insecurity are on the rise, affecting critical sectors like agriculture and services. Currently, two-thirds of the population lack access to essential health services, with about 75% of health facilities in conflict zones non-functional.
The Sudan Health Assistance and Response to Emergencies (SHARE) Project will receive $82 million to strengthen healthcare services. This includes a $19.5 million grant to the World Health Organization (WHO) and a $62.5 million grant to UNICEF from the World Bank’s International Development Association (IDA). The project aims to provide health and nutrition services focusing on community engagement for over nine million people across displaced and host communities.
In addition, the SUDAN SANAD - Emergency Crisis Response Safety Net Project has been allocated $100 million for emergency safety nets targeting food-insecure populations. In collaboration with the World Food Programme (WFP) and UNICEF, this project will reach approximately 140,000 households, focusing on those that are severely food-insecure or headed by women or children.
Yoichiro Ishihara, World Bank Country Manager for Sudan, stated: “Drawing from over a decade of experience in Fragility, Conflict, and Violence (FCV) contexts, these two projects emphasize flexibility at strategic and operational levels to enhance service delivery speed, accountability, citizen engagement, and partnerships."
The collaboration between these projects is extensive with joint design efforts aimed at expanding their reach while addressing systemic challenges through robust solutions.