Brussels, 20/08/2013 (Agence Europe) - With Sudan facing serious floods since the start of the month, the European Commission announced on 20 August that it would send experts to assess the needs of around 150,000 people that have fallen victim. The floods have already caused the death of several dozen people, with extensive damage to houses and infrastructure. European Commissioner for Humanitarian Aid Kristalina Georgieva has expressed her sympathy and support to the victims of the disaster.
On Tuesday, Georgieva announced that she had mobilised European humanitarian aid experts to determine the needs on the ground as soon as the affected areas become accessible. It is the region of Khartoum that at this stage has been the most affected. Georgieva stated that it is crucial “that assessments can be carried out urgently to understand the level and type of assistance required. This will allow for the provision of much-needed relief assistance to the flood victims”.
The Commission is also ready to increase its humanitarian aid to Sudan if necessary. There is currently €76 million available for the country for 2012-2013. The projects funded by the EU mostly involve supporting emergency preparedness and response. Through these projects, assistance can already be channelled to flood-affected populations. (MD/transl.fl)