In a monumental show of global solidarity, Saudi Arabia, through the King Salman Humanitarian Aid and Relief Centre (KSrelief), pledged over $1.1 billion at a major donors’ conference in Jeddah to support displaced populations and refugees in the Sahel and Lake Chad regions. This substantial commitment demonstrates the Kingdom’s dedication to addressing escalating humanitarian crises in West Africa and the Lake Chad Basin, affected by ongoing conflicts, climate disruption, and economic hardship.
The event, held in partnership with the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) and the United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA), gathered over ten donor nations and organizations to respond to the urgent needs in Nigeria, Niger, Chad, Burkina Faso, and Mali. Highlighting the gravity of the situation, Dr. Abdullah Al Rabeeah, KSrelief’s Supervisor General, noted the significance of the contributions, stating, “This funding showcases global solidarity and enables humanitarian organizations to deliver life-saving support.”
OIC Secretary-General Hissein Brahim Taha lauded the conference as a landmark in international unity, providing a platform for dialogue and establishing a pathway for sustainable aid to communities deeply impacted by displacement and disaster. UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres added his praise, emphasizing the critical nature of the initiative for the 30 million individuals urgently needing humanitarian assistance across the Sahel and Lake Chad Basin.
In a further display of commitment, Saudi Arabia pledged an additional $30 million, bringing its total 2024 contribution to $51 million. This collective funding effort will empower the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) and partner organizations to deliver critical resources to these impacted areas.
As climate change and conflict continue to destabilize these regions, the KSrelief-hosted conference represents a decisive step toward supporting millions in need and building resilience against future challenges.
