Sudan Roundup: Inflation rate drops, UN courts for $6b support, $200m aid from UAE
Sudan’s inflation rate eases to 145.14% in January
Sudan’s inflation rate continued its downward trajectory, falling to 145.14% in January, according to data released by the Central Bureau of Statistics on Sunday. This marks a significant decline from 187.83% in December 2024. According to Sudan Tribune, the latest figures indicate a sustained easing of inflation over recent months. In November, inflation stood at 198.22%, down from 211.48% in October and 215.52% in September. The trend suggests ongoing stabilization efforts in the country's economy, though inflation remains high. The inflation rate measures the percentage change in the general price level compared to the same month in the previous year, reflecting shifts in purchasing power and economic conditions.
UAE pledges additional $200m Sudan funding
The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has pledged an additional $200 million (AED 734 million) in humanitarian assistance to Sudan, raising its total contribution to $3.5 billion. As reported by ARN News, the announcement was made during the High-Level Humanitarian Conference for the People of Sudan held in Addis Ababa. In a statement on X (formerly Twitter), the UAE Ministry of Foreign Affairs emphasized the significance of the conference, describing it as the first major humanitarian gathering for Sudan in 2025. The ministry highlighted that the event aims to pave the way for future international conferences focused on providing essential support to the Sudanese people.
UN appeals for $6 billion for Sudan crisis aid in 2025
The United Nations has launched a $6 billion appeal to provide critical aid to 26 million people affected by Sudan’s ongoing war and the millions fleeing dire conditions. Since April 2023, Sudan has been engulfed in conflict between army chief Abdel Fattah Al-Burhan and Rapid Support Forces leader Mohamed Hamdan Dagalo. The war has displaced 12 million people, with 3.5 million seeking refuge abroad, according to OCHA and UNHCR, Arab News reports.
AU calls for immediate ceasefire amid worsening Sudan crisis
The African Union (AU) has urged Sudan’s warring factions to enforce an immediate ceasefire and initiate a political transition amid an escalating humanitarian crisis, AU Commissioner Bankole Adeoye said at the 38th AU Summit in Addis Ababa, calling Sudan’s war the worst humanitarian crisis in Africa and beyond, Adeoye condemned violations, particularly against women and children. The conflict, which began in April 2023 between the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) and Rapid Support Forces (RSF), has killed over 28,700 people and displaced 14 million. Despite Sudan's AU suspension since 2021, Adeoye emphasized that the crisis remains a priority for the AU and global peace efforts, News.AZ reported.
RSF-backed parallel government plans to acquire warplanes
Al-Hadi Idris, a key figure in forming a parallel government in RSF-controlled areas, announced plans to acquire warplanes and weapons to “defend citizens.” The signing of the political charter, initially set for Tuesday, February 18, in Nairobi, has been postponed to Wednesday, February 19, to accommodate more signatories, with constitutional arrangements and government formation to follow. Idris stated the new government aims to create a unified army from various factions, including the RSF, to protect against air and land attacks. Sudan Tribune reports that it will rely on self-sustained resources, opening border crossings and airspace, while welcoming international support. Regarding financial pledges, the UAE committed $200 million, Ethiopia $15 million, and Kenya $1 million for humanitarian aid, earmarked specifically for the peace government.
