As foreign aid faces disruption and stagnation, some African nations are struggling to aid their commitments to support countries in terrible conditions, struggling with their own significant challenges.Despite facing similar challenges, Ethiopia is playing a trailblazer role for demonstrating a promise to supporting those in greater need.
After the election of the USA President Donald Trump, several aid organizations have reported a significant decline in donations. For instance, the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) has reportedly frozen its supportive activities over the past two months, leaving many vulnerable communities without essential resources. This situation is particularly terrible in Africa, where recovery efforts are critically needed.
In a positive display of kindness, Ethiopia recently contributed 15 million USD in humanitarian aid to neighboring Sudan, exemplifying the spirit of solidarity that remains vital in these challenging times.
Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed (PhD), stated times. that Ethiopia and Sudan are deeply interdependent, and bound by generations of shared struggles, aspirations and cultural ties.
In an exclusive interview with The Ethiopian Herald,Former Ethiopian Diplomat, Deyamo Dale noted that Sudan is at the forefront of countries experiencing a crisis, and it is encouraging that Ethiopia and other African nations are providing humanitarian and psychological support to displaced citizens.
In his part, Political Analyst,MulugetaDebebe (PhD), highlighted Ethiopia’s commendable decision to assist Sudan. This act reflects a commitment to prioritizing the urgent needs of a neighboring country over some domestic challenges, he said.
Nearly two years have passed since violence erupted in Sudan, with rival factions battling for control of the capital. Tragically, civilians continue to tolerate the effect of the ongoing conflict as it spreads throughout the nation.
Recent reports show that in 2024, global humanitarian aid is projected to reach approximately 30 billion USD annually. A significant portion of this funding is directed towards African nations, which received approximately 10 billion USD in humanitarian assistance. This funding targets urgent needs like food security, healthcare, and emergency aid.
The United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) estimated that about 300 million people in Africa will require humanitarian assistance next year.
Today, over 25 million people in Sudan or more than half the population are facing severe hunger, the worst in the nation’s history. Additionally, more than 10 million individuals have been forcibly displaced, seeking refuge within Sudan and in neighboring countries.
Expert emphasized that the significance of such acts of solidarity highlight the resilience and unity among African countries, showcasing their dedication to uplifting one another during difficult times. Together, they embody the essence of community and support.
Prime Minister Abiy further said that over the past six years, Ethiopia has actively supported Sudanese peace and sovereignty and contributed to its economic endeavors by providing electricity through a dedicated transmission line. “Despite our own challenges, we firmly believe that a neighbor in need is a neighbor indeed,”he noted.
For Mulegeta,this humanitarian assistance is beyond aid. Not only does it aim to alleviate the hardships faced by Sudanese citizens, but it also sets a precedent for African nations to collaborate in addressing regional issues collectively.
He stated that while the principle of solving African problems by Africans has long been recognized, the recent aid commitment by Ethiopia, Kenya and other African countries to tackle the Sudanese crisis are particularly encouraging.
With Western and USA support facing disruptions and stagnation, Deyamo believed that Africa must collaborate to address its own challenges. He mentioned ongoing projects aimed at establishing an African-level fund based on the principle of solving African problems locally, advocating for the creation of a humanitarian aid fund.
He emphasized that by focusing on shared struggles, Africans can support each other. Resolving conflicts, fostering peace, sharing power, and combating corruption could enable the continent to effectively leverage its resources and reduce dependency on foreign aid.
The expert stressed the importance of unity among African leaders and specialists in devising effective strategies to tackle the continent’s pressing problems. Deyamo called for a collaborative approach to ensure that policies developed are actionable and grounded in the realities on the ground.
Moreover, Mulegeta urged that addressing the root causes of Africa’s challenges is crucial. He advocated for the peaceful utilization of Africa’s natural resources to minimize foreign interference and exploitation, ultimately fostering a more self-sufficient and resilient continent.
THE ETHIOPIAN HERALD SUNDAY EDITION 6 APRIL 2025
BY FIKADU BELAY
