Sudan Launches Humanitarian Airlift to Aid Rebel-held South Kordofan
Sudan has initiated a humanitarian airlift to deliver 1,000 tonnes of aid to South Kordofan, targeting areas affected by famine and controlled by rebels. The operation involves 78 flights from Juba, South Sudan, and follows high-level discussions between Sudanese and South Sudanese leaders. The government aims to uphold humanitarian laws and ensure access to essential supplies for its citizens, while negotiations with the SPLM-N for aid corridors continue.
On November 3, 2024, Sudan commenced a humanitarian airlift to deliver 1,000 tonnes of aid to the South Kordofan region, particularly targeting rebel-held areas. The initiative, announced by the Foreign Ministry, aims to address urgent humanitarian needs stemming from a declared famine by the Sudan People’s Liberation Movement-North (SPLM-N) in its control zones. The first shipment arrived on Friday in Kadugli, and the operation will involve a total of 78 flights from Juba, South Sudan’s capital, carrying essential supplies, including food and medicine. This airlift is a outcome of discussions between Sudanese ruling council leader Abdel Fattah al-Burhan and South Sudanese President Salva Kiir, focusing on humanitarian assistance delivery. The operation is conducted in partnership with South Sudan’s Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs. Sudan’s government emphasized its commitment to international humanitarian standards and the necessity of ensuring its citizens have access to vital resources without political interference. Efforts are ongoing to negotiate aid corridor agreements with the SPLM-N, despite previous stalled negotiations in May. The government remains optimistic about fostering cooperation in delivering humanitarian support to those in dire need within South Kordofan.
The South Kordofan region of Sudan has experienced significant humanitarian distress due to ongoing conflict and political strife. The Sudan People’s Liberation Movement-North (SPLM-N) controls parts of this region and has reported severe food shortages, prompting the declaration of famine in these areas. The recent airlift reflects a strategic effort by the Sudanese government to alleviate suffering and meet humanitarian obligations, particularly after high-level discussions with South Sudan’s leadership to bolster aid efforts. Humanitarian access in conflict zones remains a critical issue, with negotiations and agreements constantly evolving. Ensuring aid reaches those affected while navigating the complexities of local politics represents an ongoing challenge.
In summary, Sudan’s initiation of a humanitarian airlift to South Kordofan marks a significant step towards addressing the urgent needs of those in conflict-affected areas. The airlift, which aims to deliver critical supplies amidst reported famine conditions, illustrates the government’s commitment to humanitarian principles and its engagement in dialogue with the SPLM-N to establish effective aid corridors. Continued collaboration with South Sudan underscores the importance of regional cooperation in humanitarian efforts.
Original Source: sudantribune.com
