Port Sudan, 29 June 2025 – The Government of Switzerland and the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) have signed a CHF 3.5 million agreement to strengthen the resilience of internally displaced persons (IDPs), refugees and host communities in East Sudan.

The new partnership comes at a critical time as the country faces the world’s worst humanitarian crises, with 30 million people in need of assistance and some 10 million displaced.

The two-year project, titled Strengthening the Resilience of IDPs, Refugees and Vulnerable Host Communities in East Sudan, will support some 160,000 people by enhancing food and livelihood security, expanding access to clean water and sustainable energy and promoting social cohesion. It will operate across Kassala, Gedaref and Red Sea States and builds on UNDP’s area-based approach to integrate humanitarian relief with early recovery and long-term development.

“This contribution underscores Switzerland’s commitment to durable solutions that go beyond emergency response,” said Kathrin Wyss, Head of Swiss Cooperation Sudan (a.i.). “We are proud to support an approach that addresses the root causes of vulnerability, promotes peace and empowers local communities – especially women and youth – to shape their own futures.”

The project will help restore agricultural production and fisheries by providing climate-resilient seeds, tools, livestock and training. Off-farm income opportunities will be created through small business grants, cash-for-work initiatives and skills development, especially for women and youth.

To enhance access to clean water and renewable energy, the project will provide solar-powered water and irrigation systems, reducing dependence on fossil fuels. Households will receive solar kits for lighting and phone charging, solar streetlights will be installed at key sites to reduce the risk of gender-based violence, and schools and clinics will be equipped with solar power.

The project will also establish or strengthen Community Management Committees to manage resources and mediate tensions. These committees will include women, youth and representatives of local groups, and will support peacebuilding efforts through forums and events.

UNDP will implement the project with local NGOs, state institutions and other partners, linking Switzerland’s contribution with funding from Italy, Japan and internal UNDP resources. The total budget for the initiative is US $8.78 million.

“The war has caused immense human suffering, but the response cannot rely solely on humanitarian aid, which will never match the scale of the crisis,” said Luca Renda, UNDP Resident Representative in Sudan. “We urgently need to invest in early recovery and development solutions that reduce dependence on aid. This partnership with Switzerland helps us do just that – supporting communities to recover, rebuild and lead their own development.”

For more information and to arrange interviews, contact:

Hajer Suliman, UNDP Sudan, Head of Communications, hajer.suliman@undp.org 

Hesham Mohamadi, Embassy of Switzerland in Egypt, Media & Communication Advisor, hesham.mohamadi@eda.admin.ch 

About UNDP Sudan 

UNDP is the leading United Nations organization fighting to end the injustice of poverty, inequality, and climate change. Working with our broad network of experts and partners in 170 countries, we help nations to build integrated, lasting solutions for people and planet. Learn more at www.undp.org/sudan or follow us at:

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