The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, through King Salman Humanitarian Aid and Relief Centre has raised over USD 1.1billion in pledges to support displaced persons and refugees across the Sahel and Lake Chad regions.
This was announced in a statement made available to AIT by Saudi Arabia’s mission in Nigeria.
This funding commitment, according to the statement, is made possible by the contributions of more than ten donor countries, agencies, and organizations dedicated to addressing the growing humanitarian needs in these crisis-hit areas.
The donor conference Held in collaboration with the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC), the UnitedNations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA).
The meeting also had the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) as partner os to provide urgent humanitarian assistance to the people of Nigeria, Niger, Chad, Burkina Fasoand Mali, faced with various crises and disasters.
In his address during the conference, Advisor at the Royal Court and Supervisor General of KS relief l, Abdullah Al Rabeeah expressed appreciation for the generosity shown by the donor community.
He noted that these contributions not only demonstrate solidarity but also empower humanitarian organizations to deliver life-saving support.
He further said the contributions would ensure greater security and resilience for affected populations.
Al Rabeeah affirmed Saudi Arabia’s ongoing commitment, through KS relief, expanding aid efforts in partnership with international stakeholders, ensuring that aid reaches those in urgent need.
OIC Secretary-General, Hissein Brahim Taha on his part stated that the conference is a testament to international unity.
He said the forum provided a platform for dialogue among humanitarian leaders and a foundation for coordinated, sustainable support forthose affected by displacement.
United Nations Secretary-General, Antonio Guterres also lauded Saudi Arabia and the OIC for leading the event, acknowledging the region’s potential and the severe challenges it faces due to ongoing conflicts, climate disruptions, and economic strain.
Guterres again called for an end to hostilities and protection of civilians as well as unhindered access for aid efforts .
The Kingdom further strengthened its commitment to the region by pledging an additional USD 30 million, bringing its total contributions for 2024 to USD 51 million.
(Editor: Nkoli Omohdu)
