On November 3, 2024, Sudan commenced an airlift of 1,000 tonnes of humanitarian aid to areas in South Kordofan controlled by rebels. With 78 flights planned from Juba, the initiative aims to provide food and medicine, following discussions between Sudanese and South Sudanese leaders. The operation highlights Sudan’s commitment to international humanitarian law and its efforts to ensure citizens’ access to essential supplies.
On November 3, 2024, Sudan initiated an airlift of 1,000 tonnes of humanitarian aid directed toward rebel-held areas in South Kordofan, as reported by the Foreign Ministry. The operation began with the arrival of the first plane in Kadugli, the region’s capital, delivering 16 tonnes of essential supplies. The undertaking will consist of 78 flights transporting food and medical resources from Juba, South Sudan’s capital, to the Kadugli and Julud regions. The latter is under the control of the Sudan People’s Liberation Movement-North (SPLM-N), which has previously declared a famine in territories it occupies. This initiative was spurred by discussions between Sudan’s ruling council leader, Abdel Fattah al-Burhan, and South Sudan’s President Salva Kiir, revolving around the provision of aid to affected populations. Furthermore, the operation is in collaboration with South Sudan’s Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs, highlighting a joint effort to mitigate the humanitarian crisis in the region. Sudan’s Foreign Ministry emphasized the airlift as a testament to the state’s adherence to international humanitarian law, underscoring the importance of ensuring access to essential supplies for its citizens. The government reaffirmed its dedication to the moral and legal standards guiding humanitarian endeavors, explicitly stating its intention to avoid politicization of aid efforts and engaging in discussions with the SPLM-N regarding the establishment of aid corridors.
The humanitarian situation in South Kordofan has been precarious, particularly in areas controlled by the SPLM-N, which has declared famine conditions. This conflict-torn region has seen significant challenges regarding access to food and medical services, necessitating external aid. The airlift operation underlines the importance of international cooperation in addressing humanitarian crises and reflects Sudan’s strategic engagement with South Sudan, especially following the halted negotiations between the government and SPLM-N since May. The commitment to uphold international humanitarian principles signifies the Sudanese government’s recognition of its obligations towards its citizens regardless of political circumstances.
In summary, Sudan’s ongoing airlift of humanitarian aid to rebel-controlled South Kordofan is a significant step towards alleviating the suffering caused by famine and conflict in the region. The cooperation with South Sudan and the emphasis on humanitarian law reflect a dedicated approach to addressing urgent needs without political interference. Continued dialogue with the SPLM-N remains crucial for establishing sustainable aid access, demonstrating the complex interplay of humanitarian efforts and regional politics.
Original Source: sudantribune.com
