In a critical move to address the ongoing humanitarian crisis, Tom Fletcher, the newly appointed UN Under-Secretary-General for Humanitarian Affairs, made his first field visit to Sudan and Chad this week. Taking over from Martin Griffiths, Fletcher emphasized the urgent need for increased access to assistance for those affected by the conflict.
Speaking from Port Sudan, Fletcher highlighted that more than half of Sudan's population is in dire need of support, with approximately 20,000 people displaced daily. \"The top objectives are to scale up access to those we need to support, increase the visibility of the crisis, back our humanitarian coordinators and teams in country as they grip coordination of vital aid and listen and learn,\" he stated.
Fletcher's mission included meetings with key Sudanese authorities, including General Burhan, president of the Transitional Sovereign Council. These discussions focused on overcoming obstacles to aid delivery, boosting the presence of humanitarian workers in the most affected areas, and enhancing cross-border aid distribution even amidst ongoing conflicts.
During his visit to Kassala, Fletcher toured a center for children who had been evacuated due to violence and a camp for displaced individuals, underscoring the severe impact of the crisis on civilians nationwide. \"This crisis is one of staggering proportions and it demands the world's attention,\" Fletcher remarked.
Additionally, the World Food Program has initiated a second domestic flight line through the UN Humanitarian Air Service, with the first flight from Port Sudan to Dongola already completed. This new route is expected to facilitate quicker and more efficient aid delivery, particularly to critical transfer points like Al Dabbah.
As the situation in Sudan continues to evolve, Fletcher's leadership aims to amplify the global response and ensure that humanitarian efforts reach those most in need.
Reference(s):
New UN relief chief visits Sudan, appeals for more aid access
cgtn.com
