Saudi Gazette report

KHARTOUM — As Sudan's healthcare system teeters on the brink of collapse amid ongoing conflict, Saudi Arabia has intensified its humanitarian support, launching new health initiatives and surgical campaigns in coordination with Sudanese authorities.

Saudi Ambassador to Khartoum Ali Jaafar announced that work has begun on rehabilitating six hospitals in Khartoum.

He noted the formation of a joint committee between the King Salman Humanitarian Aid and Relief Centre (KSrelief) and Sudan’s Ministry of Health to assess humanitarian needs and deliver targeted support.

One of the key efforts includes a free surgical campaign at Bawarth Military Hospital in Port Sudan, jointly launched by the Saudi Embassy and Sudan’s Ministry of Health.

The initiative, scheduled from May 5 to 6, will conduct 70 specialized surgeries, including procedures for urinary tract tumors, kidney stones, reproductive system conditions, and female urological diseases.

The campaign is funded by KSrelief and implemented by the Muslim World League.

Sudan’s Health Minister Dr. Haitham Ibrahim stated that more than 30 additional health camps are planned in cooperation with the King Salman Center to meet urgent medical needs in conflict-affected areas.

Since the outbreak of fighting in April 2023, Saudi Arabia has provided over $3 billion in aid to Sudan, including $132 million in humanitarian relief across various sectors.

Dr. Abdullah Al-Rabeeah, Supervisor General of KSrelief, said the center has implemented more than 70 humanitarian projects in Sudan since April 2023 at a cost exceeding $73 million.

"Before the crisis erupted, our focus was on long-term development, but the severity of the conflict has forced us to shift back to emergency aid," Al-Rabeeah said.