Saudi Arabia, through the King Salman Humanitarian Aid and Relief Centre (KSrelief), successfully hosted a donors’ conference that raised more than $1.1 billion for displaced persons and refugees in the Sahel and Lake Chad regions.
This significant funding commitment was achieved with contributions from over 10 donor countries, agencies, and organizations dedicated to addressing the urgent humanitarian needs in these crisis-affected areas.
The event which took place in Jeddah in collaboration with the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC), United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR), and the United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) is aimed to provide immediate assistance to vulnerable populations in Nigeria, Niger, Chad, Burkina Faso, and Mali, who are facing various crises and natural disasters.
In his remarks, Abdullah Al Rabeeah, Advisor at the Royal Court and Supervisor General of KSrelief, expressed gratitude for the generosity shown by donors. He noted that these contributions not only exemplify international solidarity but also empower humanitarian organizations to deliver life-saving support, enhancing security and resilience for affected communities.
Al Rabeeah reaffirmed Saudi Arabia’s commitment to expanding aid efforts in partnership with international stakeholders, ensuring that those in urgent need receive timely assistance.
OIC Secretary-General Hissein Brahim Taha emphasized the conference as a testament to international unity. He highlighted that the forum provided a crucial platform for dialogue among humanitarian leaders, laying the groundwork for coordinated and sustainable support for displaced populations.
“The presence of so many committed nations and organizations today underscores a shared commitment to the values of solidarity and cooperation,” Taha stated.
United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres commended Saudi Arabia and the OIC for their leadership in the event.
He acknowledged the immense potential of the Sahel and Lake Chad regions, as well as the severe challenges they face due to ongoing conflicts, climate disruptions, and economic instability. With over 30 million people in these regions requiring immediate assistance, Guterres called for sustained humanitarian support and investment in long-term solutions.
He also urged for an end to hostilities, the protection of civilians, and unhindered access to aid.
As a further demonstration of its commitment, Saudi Arabia pledged an additional $30 million, raising its total contributions for 2024 to $51 million.
