Bridge building in Sudan
Visit to London
In December 2009, we arranged private and public meetings between several international humanitarian agencies and senior Sudanese Government officials led by State Minister of Humanitarian Affairs, Dr Abdelbagi Gailani Ahmed. The London based discussions were a vital step in negotiations since the expulsion of several international aid agencies from Sudan in March 2009.
Participants discussed the political geography of Sudan, aid requirements throughout the country, and the need for partnership. In particular, the threat of violence and famine in the South weighed heavily. The possibility of running A HOPE for Sudan workshop was suggested, as part of the effort for reconciliation and partnership.
Dr Hany El Banna, "the visit very important, re-establishing communication, and enabling trust through dialogue. These are the first steps in a new era." The Minister also welcomed the advances the visit brought about, saying, "We have begun a journey which will create a platform to improve communication between our Government and the West."
Watch exclusive video footage of the London meetings
Return to Khartoum
Following the 2009 visit of the Minister to London, Dr Hany El Banna visited Khartoum for further meetings in February 2010.This is a crucial time in Sudan, both because of the recent ceasefire in Dafur, and the run-up to the the general elections and referendum on the Southern issue. The Humanitarian Forum (THF) is working to help heal the relationship between Sudan and the outside world, from a humanitarian point of view.
The Humanitarian Forum went to Khartoum to discuss peace in Dafur. Meetings were held with the Minister of Humanitarian Affairs, HAC, and a number of special advisors in the humanitarian field, to try and capitalise on humanitarian society, to build peace in the Sudan as a whole.
Dr Hany El Banna said: 'The atmosphere in Sudan is different from that which we experienced at the beginning of last year, and even from the atmosphere of the meetings we held in London last November. It has become more welcoming. Now is our opportunity build a stronger relationship and a solid bridge, and we will all have to revisit our roles as we look to strengthen the role of civil society in Sudan and build long term peace.'
He added, 'I am optimistic about the signing of the ceasefire, but optimism is not enough. We must now work to change the ceasefire into sustainable peace, based on delivering the needs of citizens of the area.'
The Humanitarian Forum will continue its work in Sudan over the coming years.
