Muna Eltahir of Practical Action charity reported on severe USAID funding cuts impacting humanitarian efforts in Sudan, specifically during Ramadan. The organization previously aided communities with drought-resistant seeds, solar energy solutions, and water infrastructure, but budget reductions have forced project suspensions and job losses. Eltahir is actively seeking new funding sources while maintaining hope for the affected populations.
Muna Eltahir, head of the Practical Action charity in Sudan, has expressed that the recent cuts to USAID funding represent the most severe challenge she has encountered in her extensive experience as a humanitarian worker. Amidst Sudan’s ongoing civil war and climate issues, Practical Action has been vital in aiding communities affected by the changing environment, particularly in Kassala and Gedarif states.
Eltahir’s organization provides drought-resistant seeds, agricultural tools, and solar energy solutions to assist nearly 400,000 people. Prior to the funding cuts, they had secured $2.5 million from USAID for a project that benefited over 126,000 individuals with essential resources like solar power and water tanks. However, Eltahir received notice on January 25 to halt all project activities due to the cuts, leading to significant job losses within her team.
The local communities demonstrated an understanding of the situation, recognizing that the funding cuts were decided by the U.S. government and were beyond the organization’s control. Fortunately, many essential supplies had already been distributed, allowing farmers to begin their planting season despite the halt in support.
Practical Action is now seeking alternative funding sources to compensate for the USAID cuts, which accounted for approximately 25% of their financial resources in Sudan. While the loss is substantial, the organization maintains a diversified funding strategy and expects to continue supporting the communities through other programs.
This report highlights the critical impact of international aid cuts on humanitarian efforts within conflict-affected regions, particularly during vital periods like Ramadan.
The article underscores the detrimental effects of USAID funding cuts on humanitarian projects in Sudan, as articulated by Muna Eltahir. Despite the challenges faced, including staffing reductions and halted projects, Practical Action remains committed to seeking alternative funding to support the affected communities. This situation throws into sharp relief the vulnerabilities within humanitarian aid programs reliant on governmental support, particularly in crisis regions grappling with both political and environmental pressures.
Original Source: www.context.news
