On Monday, the Governor of the Darfur Region, Minni Arko Minawi, held a meeting in Geneva with Gemma Connell, Acting Director of the United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs. The meeting discussed developments in the humanitarian situation in Sudan, particularly in the Darfur region, and ways to enhance coordination to improve the humanitarian response.
The Governor expressed his appreciation for the role of the UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs in Sudan, praising its field leadership efforts and affirming the government’s commitment to facilitating humanitarian access, including logistical measures and the opening of crossings.
He reviewed the humanitarian challenges in Darfur resulting from ongoing militia violations against civilians and the systematic targeting of humanitarian convoys. He stressed the need to respond to the growing needs of displaced populations, improve aid distribution, and strengthen coordination mechanisms to ensure assistance reaches all affected areas.
Minawi emphasized the need to review the use of the Adre border crossing, citing its use by the militia and its backers, including the United Arab Emirates, for military purposes, as well as logistical challenges associated with it. He noted that more effective alternatives are available.
For her part, the Acting Director reaffirmed OCHA’s commitment to continuing efforts to effectively respond to the crisis, noting the challenges related to funding shortages, which limit the ability to meet all needs. She also stressed the importance of improving coordination, accelerating resource allocation, and supporting local actors.
At the conclusion of the meeting, both sides emphasized the importance of continued coordination and joint cooperation to enhance the effectiveness of the humanitarian response in Sudan, particularly in the Darfur region.
