Saudi-Hosted Donors’ Conference Secures $1.1 Billion for Sahel and Lake Chad Region

Jeddah: A donors' conference hosted by Saudi Arabia successfully raised $1.1 billion in aid pledges to support displaced people and refugees in the Sahel and Lake Chad region during a one-day event in Jeddah. The conference, organized by the King Salman Humanitarian Aid and Relief Center, in collaboration with the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) and in coordination with UN bodies, sought to address the humanitarian needs of these areas. According to Kuwait News Agency, the conference concluded with Abdullah Al-Rabeeah, Adviser at the Saudi Royal Court and Supervisor General of the KSrelief Center, announcing that over ten donor countries, agencies, and organizations contributed in-kind aid. Al-Rabeeah expressed gratitude to the donors, emphasizing that the contributions highlight a shared dedication to giving and solidarity. The pledged funds are expected to significantly aid humanitarian organizations in delivering essential assistance, thereby fostering security and prosperity for affected comm unities. Al-Rabeeah affirmed Saudi Arabia's commitment, through KSrelief, to continue its efforts to reach as many people in need as possible, working alongside various stakeholders to achieve their humanitarian objectives. Additionally, Al-Rabeeah declared that Saudi Arabia has committed an extra $30 million to the Sahel and Lake Chad region, amounting to a total of $51 million pledged since the start of 2024. This pledge underscores Saudi Arabia's continued dedication to supporting disaster-affected communities and its engagement with international humanitarian initiatives globally.