Sudan: long-haul support and investment in peace is essential, Christian Aid says

Source: Christian Aid

Foreign Secretary David Lammy addressed senior representatives from the African Union and EU nations at a summit in London to mark the two-year anniversary of the conflict today.

Speaking shortly afterwards, James Wani, Christian Aid's Country Director for South Sudan based in Juba, said: "Amidst a brutal conflict, millions of people across Sudan are displaced and facing the threat of famine and dying.

"It's not just Sudan. Over a million refugees and returnees have crossed the border into South Sudan to escape the horrific violence. Christian Aid's local partners are responding by providing cash, emergency supplies and access to water and sanitation to over 100,000 people.

"While the funding announced by the UK Government for Sudan - and South Sudan last November - is welcome, long-haul support is required. The UK Government's decision to slash development spending has instead created a cloud of uncertainty.

"Crucially, with the conflict spilling over, we need a serious diplomatic investment in national and international peace processes to create and protect the peace needed, and to deter other states from providing financial or military support that can fuel the conflict."