GLOBAL diplomats and aid officials gathered in London on Tuesday to address the catastrophic humanitarian crisis unfolding in Sudan, two years into a brutal civil war that has killed tens of thousands and forced more than 14 million people from their homes.
The summit, co-hosted by the African Union, United Kingdom, European Union, France, and Germany, focused on raising emergency funds and advocating for a permanent ceasefire, rather than direct negotiations between the warring factions.
According to AP, Sudan was not represented at the conference. Neither the Sudanese army nor the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) — both accused of war crimes — were invited.
Millions displaced as famine worsens
The war, which erupted on April 15, 2023, has devastated much of Sudan, especially the capital Khartoum and the western region of Darfur. The United Nations reports that at least 20,000 people have been killed, although the true toll is likely much higher.
Last week alone, over 300 civilians were reportedly killed in Darfur during intense clashes.
The World Food Programme estimates that nearly 25 million people — half of Sudan’s population — now face extreme hunger. Over 3 million have fled to neighbouring countries like Chad and Egypt, fuelling regional instability.
Aid group Oxfam warned that the crisis is spilling across borders, further straining fragile peace in nearby South Sudan.
UK pledges new aid, urges peace
UK Foreign Secretary David Lammy announced £120 million ($158 million) in new humanitarian aid for Sudan, aimed at feeding 650,000 people. However, he acknowledged the limits of Western influence on the conflict.
‘We must persuade the warring parties to protect civilians, allow aid to flow freely, and put peace first,’ Lammy told delegates.
He added that Sudan’s collapse threatens broader regional security and contributes to rising migration pressures. Lammy previously visited Chad’s border with Sudan in January and warned that ‘instability must not spread’.
UAE presence stirs criticism
Sudan’s government condemned the conference for excluding its representatives while inviting the United Arab Emirates (UAE), a country repeatedly accused of supplying arms to the RSF. The UAE denies the claims, despite mounting evidence.
Lana Nusseibeh, a senior UAE foreign ministry official, called for both sides to end attacks on humanitarian workers and civilian infrastructure. She urged an ‘immediate, permanent, and unconditional ceasefire’.
The United States, which has slashed foreign aid in recent months, was also expected to attend, reiterating concern over the deteriorating situation.
Global community urged not to give up on Sudan
While peace remains elusive, organisers emphasised the need for continued international engagement. ‘Many have given up on Sudan,’ Lammy said, citing the lack of political will among the combatants as the greatest barrier to peace.
The African Union joined co-hosts in calling for an immediate halt to hostilities. Still, Lammy cautioned that achieving peace will require ‘patient diplomacy’ and sustained effort.
With the UN labelling Sudan the world’s worst humanitarian crisis, international stakeholders hope the London summit will mark a turning point in rallying support, saving lives, and laying the groundwork for eventual peace.
