On March 1, 2025, the United Arab Emirates (UAE), in collaboration with the Federal Democratic Republic of Ethiopia, the African Union, and the Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD), convened a high-level humanitarian conference in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.

This gathering, titled "High-Level Humanitarian Conference for the People of Sudan," aimed to unite regional and international efforts amid the escalating humanitarian crisis in Sudan and to advocate for a ceasefire during the Islamic holy month of Ramadan.

The conference was attended by several prominent figures, including Abiy Ahmed, Prime Minister of Ethiopia; William Ruto, President of Kenya; Antonio Guterres, United Nations Secretary-General; and Moussa Faki Mahamat, Chairperson of the African Union Commission.

Representatives from various countries, international organizations, and relevant regional entities were also present.

The UAE's initiative garnered support from multiple nations calling for a humanitarian truce and an end to hostilities during Ramadan.

Sheikh Shakhboot bin Nahyan Al Nahyan, Minister of State of the UAE, emphasized the urgency of the conference, marking it as the first dedicated meeting for Sudan in 2025. He stated that it would set the stage for future conferences aimed at addressing the needs of the Sudanese people.

Sheikh Shakhboot urged the warring parties to respect the sanctity of Ramadan by implementing a humanitarian ceasefire, which would facilitate the safe and unimpeded access of essential humanitarian aid to vulnerable populations, particularly children, the elderly, and women.

He reaffirmed that no entity should obstruct the delivery of lifesaving assistance and called for intensified international efforts to ensure aid reaches those in need across the globe.

The UAE has been active in humanitarian assistance to Sudan, having provided an additional $200 million in humanitarian aid recently, bringing the total to approximately $600.4 million since the onset of conflict.

In the past decade, the UAE has committed around $3.5 billion in support of the Sudanese people, reinforcing its stance as a leading donor during humanitarian crises.

Abiy Ahmed expressed Ethiopia's solidarity with Sudan, citing enduring ties and fostering peace and stability over the past six years, along with contributing to economic efforts by providing electricity.

Moussa Faki Mahamat highlighted the failures of the current leadership in both warring factions to provide Sudanese citizens with the opportunity for peace, justice, and dignity.

He called for an unconditional and immediate ceasefire to enable a comprehensive political dialogue addressing the root causes of the conflict.

Warqneh Jebehow, IGAD's Secretary-General, emphasized the responsibility to act at this critical moment, urging the focus on coordinated efforts to alleviate suffering and lay the groundwork for long-term recovery for the people and the nation of Sudan.

Throughout the past two years, the humanitarian crisis in Sudan has escalated dramatically, necessitating urgent collective action to address the needs of millions affected by ongoing hostilities and humanitarian needs.

As Ramadan approaches, the conference aims to mobilize resources to support humanitarian operations within the context of this sacred month, reflecting values of compassion and human solidarity.

The gathering concluded with a strong emphasis on respecting the rights of the Sudanese people to safety, food, and essential services, reiterating the importance of ensuring that humanitarian assistance is not politicized or hindered by bureaucratic processes.

The UAE voiced its commitment to its humanitarian obligations, urging all parties involved to ensure safe, sustainable access to humanitarian aid and to protect humanitarian workers and facilities.