Nairobi – President William Ruto has reaffirmed Kenya’s commitment to supporting humanitarian efforts in Sudan by pledging an additional Ksh129 million (USD 1 million), bringing Kenya’s total aid contribution to Ksh258 million.
Speaking at the High-Level Humanitarian Conference for the People of Sudan in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, Ruto emphasized Kenya’s dedication to ending the ongoing conflict. He highlighted that the funds would support displaced populations suffering from disease outbreaks, insecurity, and economic turmoil caused by the war.
“In April 2024, Kenya pledged USD 1 million for Sudan’s humanitarian crisis. Today, I am pleased to confirm that we will honor this commitment and contribute an additional USD 1 million to demonstrate our unwavering support for the Sudanese people,” Ruto announced.
The Sudanese conflict, which erupted in April 2023 between the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) and the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF), has led to the displacement of over 11.5 million people, according to UNHCR. The crisis, compounded by economic instability and climate-related disasters, has worsened humanitarian conditions across the region.
Ruto also condemned external interference in Sudan’s war, urging all foreign actors to cease supporting warring factions. “This is a man-made disaster. The obstruction of humanitarian access is unacceptable. All involved must ensure unrestricted aid flow and allow agricultural activities to resume,” he stated.
The pledge reinforces Kenya’s role in regional peace efforts, emphasizing diplomatic and humanitarian responses to conflicts in East Africa.