Sudan Crisis: $6.5 Million Pledged by Coalition to Boost Local Aid Efforts

Coalition Announces $6.5 Million Investment to Address Sudan Crisis at Clinton Global Initiative

A diverse group of 15 nonprofits, humanitarian aid organizations, and funders will kick off this year’s Clinton Global Initiative (CGI) annual meeting with a significant announcement aimed at addressing the humanitarian crisis in Sudan. The Coalition for Mutual Aid in Sudan, which includes prominent organizations such as The Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, Global Giving, Global Fund for Women, and The Unitarian Universalist Service Committee, plans to invest at least $2 million in mutual aid groups in Sudan by the end of 2023. Additionally, the coalition has pledged to raise another $4.5 million within the next two years.

This commitment is one of over 100 expected to be unveiled during the two-day gathering of political, business, and philanthropic leaders. The theme for this year’s CGI meeting, “What’s Working,” focuses on potential solutions and effective programs in challenging times.

First Lady Jill Biden is set to announce a new women’s health initiative at the event, emphasizing the need for increased research and funding in areas such as heart disease and cancer prevention, diagnosis, and treatment.

The humanitarian crisis in Sudan has reached alarming proportions, with World Food Program director Cindy McCain highlighting that 25 million people are facing acute hunger. The United Nations reports escalating fighting since the conflict began in April 2023, resulting in over 14,000 deaths and 33,000 injuries. Sudanese community groups have become the primary frontline responders due to obstacles hindering large-scale international aid efforts.

Patricia McIlreavy, president of the Center for Disaster Philanthropy, stressed the urgency of supporting local aid efforts in Sudan. The conflict has displaced more than 12 million people, creating the world’s largest displacement and hunger crisis, while also impeding international aid agencies from delivering crucial supplies.

CGI CEO Greg Milne highlighted the coalition as an example of effective partnerships addressing overlooked challenges. The conference will feature insights from philanthropic leaders such as Bill Gates, Jose Andres, Binaifer Nowrojee, and Raj Shah. Prince Harry is scheduled to discuss the launch of The Archewell Foundation Parents’ Network and his work to reduce violence against children.

Notable speakers at the event include Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva, Barbados Prime Minister Mia Mottley, Kosovo President Vjosa Osmani Sadriu, and Latvian President Edgars Rinkevics. CEOs from major corporations such as Pfizer, Mastercard, IKEA, Pinterest, Sanofi, and Chobani are also set to address the conference.