At a donors’ conference hosted by Saudi Arabia’s King Salman Humanitarian Aid and Relief Centre (KSrelief) in Jeddah, over $1.1 billion was pledged to assist displaced persons across Nigeria, Niger, Chad, Burkina Faso, and Mali, which are facing severe humanitarian crises.
The conference gathered over ten donor countries and humanitarian organizations, reflecting a shared commitment to address the growing needs of these conflict and disaster-stricken regions.
The Saudi Arabian Embassy stated that this collaborative effort, held alongside the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC), the UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA), and the UN High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR), aims to provide essential aid and support for millions affected by displacement, insecurity, and natural disasters in the Sahel and Lake Chad Basin.
Dr. Abdullah Al Rabeeah, Advisor at the Royal Court and Supervisor General of KSrelief, expressed gratitude for the generosity of the donor community, noting that these contributions are vital for enhancing security, resilience, and life-saving support for affected populations. He affirmed Saudi Arabia’s continued commitment to aid expansion through partnerships with international organizations.
OIC Secretary-General Hissein Brahim Taha highlighted the conference’s role in fostering international unity and coordinated support for displaced communities. “Today’s gathering demonstrates a global commitment to the values of solidarity and cooperation,” he said.
UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres also praised Saudi Arabia and the OIC for convening the conference, acknowledging the severe challenges facing the region due to conflict, climate disruptions, and economic pressures. Guterres emphasized the need for sustained support, long-term investment, and greater access for humanitarian aid in the region, where over 30 million people urgently require assistance.
Saudi Arabia pledged an additional $30 million, bringing its total 2024 commitment to $51 million, further underscoring its role in supporting crisis-affected communities and reinforcing its position as a leader in global humanitarian efforts through KSrelief.
