The head of the European Union delegation in the Egyptian capital, Cairo, Christian Berger, revealed that the European Union has allocated 2 million euros to Egypt to assist in accommodating new Sudanese refugees and arrivals. This funding is part of the “Enhancing Social Cohesion in Livelihoods and Building Resilience among New Sudanese Arrivals, Refugees, and Host Communities” project, which is implemented by the World Food Programme from December 2023 for a period of 18 months.
The project aims to empower 6,000 women and men, both Egyptians and Sudanese fleeing conflict, through vocational training on highly marketable skills and qualifications. It also aims to enhance the capabilities of 500 beneficiaries, including refugees and members of the host community, by facilitating their access to income-generating activities through small grants to establish micro and small enterprises.
Berger praised the Egyptian government for its efforts to support and host Sudanese refugees across all provinces, especially in Aswan, which is the first Egyptian province that new Sudanese arrivals enter, as well as Cairo, Alexandria, and Damietta for their outstanding efforts in hosting Sudanese refugees, particularly the most vulnerable. Since the outbreak of the war in Sudan in April 2023, more than 245,500 people have crossed the Sudanese-Egyptian border.
Refugee-led organizations have also been pivotal in providing direct support. For instance, the Sudanese Fulani Association for Refugees and Migrants, established by Sudanese refugees, provides a range of services including legal aid, psychological support, and daily meals, catering especially to the needs of vulnerable groups such as women and unaccompanied minors
Globally, the displacement crisis due to the Sudan conflict is substantial, with millions of Sudanese displaced internally and others seeking refuge in neighboring countries. Egypt, due to its proximity and historical ties with Sudan, has become one of the primary destinations for these refugees
