Norwegian Special Envoy Consults Sudanese Civil Society During Visit to Kampala
During his visit to Kampala, the Norwegian Special Envoy engaged with Sudanese civil society, women, youth, and political leaders to address the devastating humanitarian crisis and ongoing war. Participants emphasized the urgent need to halt hostilities, protect civilians, and restore Sudan’s democratic path. Empowering local organizations and coordinating international support are essential to deliver aid, promote peace, and safeguard the dignity, rights, and future of millions of Sudanese.
During his visit to Kampala, H.E. Ambassador Anton John Jonsson, Norwegian Special Envoy to Sudan and South Sudan, held consultative meetings with a broad spectrum of Sudanese civil society organizations, women and youth networks, and political leaders. These meetings were coordinated by the Nubian Center for Peace and Democracy and took place at the African Organization for Rights and Development (AFORD) headquarters on 14–15 February 2024.
The consultations focused on the urgent need to end the war in Sudan and the catastrophic humanitarian crisis affecting millions of internally displaced persons. Discussions also addressed the challenges faced by refugees and asylum seekers in neighboring countries and the wider region. Participants emphasized the risk of the conflict escalating into a broader civil war, threatening Sudanese unity and regional stability.
Ambassador Jonsson expressed his concern over the ongoing conflict and its devastating consequences. He reaffirmed Norway’s steadfast support for the Sudanese people and stressed the importance of coordinated efforts to halt hostilities, achieve peace, and restore Sudan’s democratic path. He encouraged civil society to consolidate their efforts and engage constructively to influence the parties to the conflict.
Sudanese civil society representatives conveyed their gratitude to Norway for its solidarity. They highlighted the rapid deterioration of the humanitarian situation and the insufficient international response, noting that foreign interventions and support for the conflicting parties have worsened the crisis. They called on Ambassador Jonsson and the international community to increase diplomatic efforts, provide urgent humanitarian assistance, and support initiatives that promote peace and stability.
The meetings highlighted the critical role of Sudanese civil society in advocating for peace, delivering humanitarian aid, and shaping an effective international response. Empowering these organizations is essential for building a peaceful and democratic future in Sudan.
The visit concluded with a shared commitment to strengthen collaboration between international partners and local organizations to address the humanitarian emergency, protect civilians, and support long-term peace and democracy in Sudan.
Nubian center for Peace and democracy
February 17, 2024
