Finance Ministry: UNICEF Funding Suspension Impacts National Planning
Undersecretary for Planning at the Ministry of Finance, Mohamed Bashar, chaired the review meeting of UNICEF’s fourth-quarter 2025 programs in partnership with the Government of Sudan. The session, attended by UNICEF Representative Sheldon Yett and Deputy Representative Anne Marie Sowai, assessed progress toward improving child and maternal welfare.
Bashar reaffirmed Sudan’s commitment to strengthening cooperation with UNICEF, noting that the suspension of a major portion of UNICEF funding has hindered the government’s ability to plan and implement programs benefiting vulnerable groups, including women and children.
He acknowledged that despite the ongoing war and limited funding due to global geopolitical conditions, UNICEF’s interventions have played a critical role in saving lives and enhancing community resilience.
The meeting aimed to establish mutual understanding among partners on UNICEF’s achievements and future framework.
Bashar further highlighted Sudan’s agreement with the UN on the Transitional Framework for Sustainable Development Cooperation (2026–2028), which identifies four strategic priorities to guide UN interventions, including UNICEF’s core programs.
UNICEF Representative Sheldon Yett reaffirmed the organization’s partnership with the government to meet the needs of children and women in Sudan.
The UNICEF team also presented a detailed report on program performance and challenges during the quarter.
Both sides agreed to continue joint coordination to improve efficiency and achieve better outcomes for children and mothers.
