DSRSG/RC/HC's speech on the launch of the 2023 Sudan Humanitarian Response Plan

Dear HAC Commissioner,

Heads of UN and partner organizations,

Distinguished Representatives of Donor Countries,  Organizations, INGOs, NGOs

Representatives of the media,

Ladies and gentlemen,

I would like to welcome you to the launch of the 2023 Humanitarian Response Plan (HRP) for Sudan.  The Humanitarian Response Plan is the embodiment of collaboration: the result of dedicated, meticulous, and comprehensive work by the United Nations and humanitarian partners (both international and national), to meet the needs of the most vulnerable in Sudan during these unprecedented times of change globally and locally.

In 2023, it is estimated that a total of 15.8 million people – almost one-third of Sudan’s population – will require humanitarian assistance. This is 1.5 million higher than the people who needed assistance in 2022 and the highest in a decade.

Humanitarian action has been ongoing in Sudan for the past few decades and there are still significant and diverse humanitarian needs across the country depending on location, context and underlying factors. Despite these efforts, complex drivers continue to contribute to rising humanitarian needs. These needs are often exacerbated by factors such as the current economic situation, and climate chocks. As humanitarians, the challenge ahead of us has never been greater. This is why collaborative, coordinated work is so important, if we are to best serve those who most need our support.

With this in mind I’d like to thank the Government of Sudan and HAC, for their facilitation of humanitarian work and would ask for their continued support to address access constraints, to ensure w can reach everyone in need.

The UN and humanitarian partners are aiming to provide 12.5 million of the most vulnerable people across Sudan - with food, livelihoods, water and sanitation, health, shelter, nutrition, education, protection and other forms of assistance.

For the 2023 year’s HRP, we have introduced a “resilience chapter” that highlights the complimentary activities that support the core humanitarian response. When funded the resilience chapter, which is not included in the HRP financial requirements, will further improve the humanitarian response and gradually reduce the humanitarian caseload in the future.

To address these most immediate and critical needs, HRP partners are seeking US$1.7 billion from the donor community. I would like to cease this opportunity to thank all the donors who contributed to the humanitarian response. As always, the successful implementation of this plan depends on the support of donors and key member states, who have been generously supporting the most vulnerable people in Sudan over the years. I call all the donor country and institutions to continue providing the necessary funding to the HRP, as it will greatly contribute to peace and stability in the country.

Thank you