Just five years ago, Sudan was filled with hope after the ousting of dictator Omar al-Bashir, largely due to the efforts of Sudanese women who led the revolution. However, a year ago today, conflict erupted when two rival generals sent their armies into battle, plunging Sudan into a state of death and devastation.
Ambassador Linda Thomas-Greenfield remarked on this grim anniversary: "These generals are standing in the way of that better future and every day this conflict goes on only brings more pain and suffering to Sudan."
The war has darkened Sudan's prospects, with famine looming and widespread impact on lives and livelihoods. Nearly 25 million people require humanitarian aid, three-quarters facing severe food insecurity. Around 8 million have been displaced internally, marking it as the world's largest internal displacement crisis.
In response, the United States is providing an additional $100 million in emergency food assistance through the U.S. Agency for International Development. This contribution raises the total U.S. aid to over $1 billion since the conflict began.
Ambassador Thomas-Greenfield emphasized that while the U.S. remains a major humanitarian supporter for Sudan, global collaboration is essential: "We cannot meet the tremendous needs alone and call on the international community to join these efforts." The recent pledges made at the International Humanitarian Conference in Paris were acknowledged positively.
She concluded by urging support for Sudan's democratic aspirations: "Let’s all stand with the Sudanese people to help them keep alive the spirit of democracy, freedom, and peace that they have so bravely championed."