As Sudan experiences a relentless escalation of conflict. The World Bank is committed to stay engaged in Sudan and to continue to support the wellbeing of the people of Sudan. In alignment with the World Bank Strategy for Fragility, Conflict, and Violence (FCV) 2020-2025.
The World Bank has worked hand in hand with development partners to approve the Sudan Somoud – Enhancing Community Resilience Project. The project, funded by a $130 million grant from the Sudan Transition and Recovery Support (STARS)* Multi-Donor Trust Fund, will provide funding directly to the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) and the World Food Programme (WFP), and will be implemented in partnership with international and local non-government organizations (NGOs).
The United Nations reported that, since the eruption of the war in April 2023, over 8.2 million individuals have been forced to leave their homes, seeking shelter within and beyond the country’s borders. Currently, Sudan holds the record for the largest population of internally displaced persons (IDPs) and the most significant child displacement crisis globally. Approximately 37% of Sudan’s population, about 17.7 million people, are suffering from serious food insecurity due to conflict and displacement.
Victoria Kwakwa,World Bank Regional Vice President for Eastern and Southern Africa said.“As the conflict continues to spread, we must find ways to extend support to the people of Sudan. Through Somoud, we aim to improve access to essential services and food security for over 560,000 IDPs and host community members across Sudan. The project will also enhance community-led services and support training and incentives for frontline workers, thereby preserving essential service delivery systems and providing agency to Sudanese communities in shaping their future.”
The project seeks to enhance food security by boosting the resilience and agricultural capacity of more than 16,000 farmers and cooperatives in conflict-impacted areas, as well as supporting the private sector as a key element of a renewed functional market system.
“We are excited to launch the ‘Sudan Somoud’ project, which will put development in the hands of communities in Sudan,” said Milena Stefanova, World Bank Country Manager for Sudan. “Through our collaboration with UNICEF, WFP, and NGOs we aim to improve access to basic services such as health, education, water and sanitation, enhance food security, and empower local communities. This project is a testament to our commitment to supporting the people of Sudan and our trust in a better, sustainable, and more resilient future.”
