UN allocates $6 million to support Sudanese refugees and host communities in Egypt

The United Nations Central Emergency Response Fund said it has allocated $6 million to support the humanitarian response for refugees who have sought refuge in Egypt due to the ongoing war in Sudan in search of protection.

A press release (Monday) said that the allocation of this amount will enhance the Rapid Emergency Response Fund and the efforts of the United Nations in Egypt, and complement the provision of life-saving support, including emergency food and cash assistance, water, sanitation and hygiene services, as well as enhancing protection for refugees.

The statement added that recent data from the Egyptian government indicates that the country is now hosting an estimated 1.2 million Sudanese, making it the largest recipient of Sudanese who were forced to flee the ongoing war in their country.

According to the statement, Elena Panova, the UN Resident Coordinator in Egypt, indicated that “as the number of refugees continues to increase daily and winter sets in, their needs are increasing, and that these Rapid Response Fund funds will provide additional assistance and protection to newly arrived refugees, and meet their immediate and long-term needs.” The statement confirmed that this funding represents the second allocation of the Emergency Response Fund for Sudanese refugees in Egypt.
The first funding, announced in May 2023, provided $5 million to support emergency needs over six months. This funding helped UN agencies and partners provide direct assistance to 320,000 people, including refugees and host communities. It also supported cash transfers, protection services, responses to gender-based violence, food security, shelter and other vital areas.