/ 30 January 2006

Sudan’s aid needs ‘remain immense’

The United Nations Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO) appealed on Monday for $40-million in aid to Sudan, saying aid coupled with long-term development is crucial to lasting peace there.

The agency said that despite a peace accord in 2005, Sudan’s humanitarian needs for 2006 ”remain immense”.

The appeal, part of the UN’s ”2006 Work Plan for Sudan”, aims to support assistance including the distribution of seeds and tools, fishing equipment and livestock medicines.

The ongoing conflict in Darfur, the risk of poor harvest in some areas and the return of hundreds of thousands of displaced Sudanese mean such relief is central to alleviating suffering and boosting the chances for peace to take hold in the country, afflicted by more than 20 years of civil war, the FAO said.

The FAO said 5,2-million people will need relief assistance in Sudan in 2006, including 2,5-million in the western Darfur region alone.

Agriculture, devastated by drought and civil war, remains the mainstay of Sudan’s economy, where it comprises 45% of gross domestic product. — Sapa-AFP