Speaking at a conference in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, Guterres highlighted the urgent need for assistance, with 33 million people in the region requiring humanitarian aid, including 11 million internally displaced persons and refugees.
He urged donors to fully fund the UN’s response plans, which are currently only 40% funded. Guterres emphasized the importance of addressing the root causes of the crisis, including poverty, inequality, climate change, and conflict.
The UN Secretary-General stressed the potential of the Sahel and Lake Chad Basin regions, with their young populations and abundant natural resources. However, these regions are plagued by violence, terrorism, and the devastating effects of climate change, such as floods.
Guterres called for a comprehensive approach that includes humanitarian aid, development assistance, and peacebuilding efforts. He emphasized the need to protect civilians, ensure unhindered humanitarian access, and promote dialogue and reconciliation.
ODL/Sf/te/fss/abj/APA