As Conflict Rages in Sudan, Mercy Corps Calls for Urgent Funding at Pledging Conference

Statement by Mercy Corps CEO Tjada D’Oyen McKenna

Monday’s donor pledging conference for Sudan comes against a backdrop of spiraling violence since April that has caused severe food shortages, massive displacement, and a humanitarian catastrophe. The ongoing conflict has resulted in nearly 2 million people being displaced from their homes. Of these, over 470,000 have sought refuge in neighboring countries, while hundreds of thousands caught in the crossfire are trying to survive inside the country as conflict rages. 

The revised 2023 Humanitarian Response Plan calls for $2.6 billion to provide lifesaving assistance to an estimated 18.1 million people by the end of this year. As of June 14, the revised funding target for Sudan is only 15.6% funded.

Mercy Corps Chief Executive Officer, Tjada D'Oyen McKenna, says: 

“In just two months, the lives of millions of people in Sudan have been drastically altered by ceaseless fighting at their doorsteps and in their streets. Once vibrant towns are now unrecognizable, once safe havens are now unlivable, and an estimated two million people face a struggle for survival and an uncertain future. Hunger, health, and poverty are all worsening as the fighting continues and prices skyrocket, while the chances for a successful planting season fade.

“That the urgent appeal for Sudan is only 15% funded is a mark of shame for the world - which has done so much to mobilize solidarity and support for people fleeing and living in the face of conflict elsewhere, notably in Ukraine. Every family and community affected by violent conflict needs our most urgent support to cope in the midst of terrible hardships. 

“Donor countries must now step up to fully meet the appeal to address Sudan’s urgent and deteriorating needs. With millions of lives at risk and with no peaceful resolution in sight, the world cannot, and must not ignore the suffering and need of the people of Sudan.”