Genoa – Sudan Now
Sudan’s Sovereign Council Adviser for Humanitarian Affairs and International Organizations, Lieutenant General Al-Sadiq Ismail Mahmoud, called for increased international support for Sudan and a stronger humanitarian response to people affected by the country’s ongoing conflict during meetings with Italian and European officials in Genoa, Italy.
The meetings, held on the sidelines of the “Music for Peace 2026” festival, brought together Italian government officials, members of the European Parliament, humanitarian representatives and media figures to discuss Sudan’s humanitarian situation and prospects for greater international engagement.
Mahmoud briefed participants on conditions in Sudan, highlighting growing humanitarian needs and stressing the importance of expanding international assistance to support civilians affected by the conflict.
The war between the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) and the Rapid Support Forces (RSF), which erupted in April 2023, has displaced millions of people and triggered one of the world’s largest humanitarian crises. Aid agencies continue to warn of severe shortages in food, healthcare and basic services across large parts of the country.
According to Sudanese officials, Italy’s Deputy Foreign Minister for Religious Affairs referred to a previous visit to Sudan during which he met displaced communities and assessed humanitarian conditions in several states.
He underscored the need for increased humanitarian assistance, particularly for children and other vulnerable groups affected by the conflict.
Members of the European Parliament who attended the meetings called for stronger international efforts to help end the war in Sudan and urged the European Union to devote greater attention to the country’s humanitarian crisis.
In one of the key outcomes of the discussions, the head of the Italian relief agency announced a €150 million commitment to support the rehabilitation of hospitals and healthcare facilities in Sudan. The agency also expressed readiness to contribute to programs aimed at supporting the voluntary return of displaced people and refugees.
Sudan’s healthcare sector has suffered extensive damage since the outbreak of the conflict, with numerous medical facilities affected by fighting and disruptions to essential services reported across several states.
Mahmoud stressed the importance of maintaining international attention on Sudan and mobilizing additional support to address the humanitarian consequences of the conflict, assist affected communities and contribute to long-term stability and recovery efforts.
