At the invitation of the Norwegian Embassy to Sudan, which operates from the Kenyan capital Nairobi, H.E. Ambassador Anton John Anton Jonsson, Ambassador of the Kingdom of Norway to Sudan and Eritrea, met with a number of representatives of Sudanese civil society organizations, women groups, youth groups and networks and leaders, political leaders in a series of consultative meetings over Thursday and Friday, 14-15 February 2024, at the African Organization for Rights and Development (AFORD) headquarters in Kampala, a Rights and Development Hub hosting several CSOs and volunteers.
The meetings discussed a number of issues related to stopping and ending the war in Sudan, in addition to meeting the challenges of the humanitarian crisis facing millions of internally displaced Sudanese, Also Urgent humanitarian aid is required to address the immediate needs of millions of displaced Sudanese, the issues of asylum seekers and refugees in refugee camps and urban areas in neighboring countries and the region, and the repercussions of the continuation of the war and the danger of its slide into a comprehensive civil war that threatens the unity and cohesion of Sudanese society and regional and international peace and security.
The Ambassador expressed his deep regret over the continuation of the war, which caused the largest humanitarian disaster in the world, and led to the displacement of millions of Sudanese to neighboring countries, and called on all Sudanese, especially civil society, to unite all their efforts and exert the maximum possible pressure on the parties to the conflict and urge them to stop the war, and the Ambassador stressed that his country stands with the Sudanese people, and supports all steps that lead to stopping the war, achieving peace and returning the civil and democratic path in Sudan.
His Excellency listened to interventions from representatives of Sudanese community organizations, who expressed their thanks and appreciation to the government and people of Norway for standing by the Sudanese people, the humanitarian situation is deteriorating rapidly, and the international community’s response has been insufficient.
Especially since the ongoing war in Sudan has not received the necessary attention from the international media and the international community. The meetings pointed out that the intervention of some countries and the support of the two parties to the conflict has exacerbated the war crisis in Sudan, and called for the need to stop the war and address the catastrophic humanitarian situation in Sudan, and called on the Norwegian ambassador to exert more efforts to stop the war and address the Sudanese crisis, and provide more support to address the humanitarian challenges faced by the Sudanese people.
The meetings have confirmed The Norwegian government’s support for the Sudanese people is significant, but more needs to be done.
Sudanese civil society organizations are playing a crucial role in advocating for peace and humanitarian aid. Their engagement with international diplomats is essential in shaping the international response to the crisis. The ongoing conflict in Sudan poses a serious threat to regional stability.
A prolonged war could escalate into a wider civil war, with devastating consequences for the region. The meetings underscore the urgency of finding a peaceful solution to the Sudanese conflict, increased diplomatic efforts are needed to pressure the warring parties to cease hostilities and engage in meaningful dialogue. Also the international community must provide sustained support to Sudan, including financial aid and technical assistance.
Empowering Sudanese civil society organizations can contribute to a more peaceful and democratic future for Sudan.
The two days visit facilitated by the African Center for Peace and Democracy
AFORD Team emerged victorious in an exhilarating match against The Worriers FC at Kasubi Field, with a final score of 7-4.
The match, held on November 13, 2024, was filled with excitement and intensity from the very beginning. Both teams showcased strong and fast performances, highlighted by exceptional individual skills and outstanding teamwork.
Congratulations to the AFORD Team for their fantastic win! And a big shoutout to The Worriers FC for their remarkable effort and sportsmanship.
#AFORDTeam #TheWorriersFC #FootballMatch #Victory #TeamWork #Sportsmanship
in AFORD safe space , more than 40 women attended and participated. AFORD provides these as a form of psychosocial support for Sudanese women. Respecting cultural norms. Small business owners had a side exhibition of various women's products. Business training organizer spoke to the women the importance of learning about small business needs and the future classes that will be offered. Dalouka ( traditional Sudanese drums) songs played a role in motivating and dancing among the group, and henna and drawing added a creative form on the hands of the women. It is also worth noting the participation of 3 young Ugandan women and another from South Sudan who did not know anything about Sudan until yesterday in the event, and some young women who were waiting for the event posters on social media pages in order to ensure attendance, and there were many recommendations from the visitors to Afford that Afford continue in this space more to support women and young women
#AFORD
#Sudan
#Women_Empowerment
The capacity building workshop organized by the African Organization for Rights and Development in partnership wth Nubian Center for Peace and Democracy, , concluded 5th Nov 2024 at the AFORD office in Kampala.
The two-day workshop aimed to equip young participants with the skills to create collaborative projects, using directed writing techniques and innovative digital methods.
The main focus of the workshop was to encourage participants to continuously propose new ideas.
Participants will undergo practical assessments to evaluate their project writing skills, and successful participants will be awarded certificates of participation based on their performance.
An exceptional activity was held at the headquarters of the African Organization for Rights and Development today, Thursday, October 10, 2024, in cooperation with the Bana Group, on the occasion of Mental Health Day, where women were invited to attend a special awareness session.
The session started with a mental health awareness session presented by a counselor specialized in psychological support, accompanied by a state of joy and entertainment with a DJ and delicious coffee The event also included various activities, including henna drawing and presenting various types of manicure, in addition to accessories and incense displays with a Sudanese flavor.
Thank you to everyone who attended and participated in this wonderful activity.
African Organization for Rights and Development Hosts Youth Day Event for the Coordination of Sudanese Youth Forces
In celebration of International Youth Day on August 15th, the African Organization for Rights and Development hosted a dialogue event bringing together 60 young people and representatives from various programs of the Sudanese Youth Coordination for International Youth Day.
The open sessions addressed pressing issues facing young people, including their political participation, their role in peacebuilding, and gender issues within conflict.
Outcomes of the Dialogue Sessions:
* Youth Unity and Political Participation: Discussions focused on strengthening youth unity and their contribution to the political landscape, emphasizing security and military challenges as well as relationships with political parties.
* Geneva Forum – Challenges and Opportunities: Discussions centered on the role of young people in negotiations and peacebuilding, identifying challenges and obstacles to achieving peace.
* Gender Issues: The importance of protecting and empowering women amidst conflicts was discussed.
The African Organization for Rights and Development encourages continued dialogue on these topics and welcomes feedback and suggestions from young people on the issues raised.
Press Release
19 Aug 2024
We consider humanitarian work not just a duty, but a noble message that aims to provide aid and support to those in need. On this special occasion of World Humanitarian Day, the African Organization for Rights and Development team extends its sincere thanks and appreciation to all the volunteers in our office in Kampala and Sudan, who are making wonderful efforts servicing in these difficult circumstances.
On this day, we celebrate and live the reality of suffering and war that is sweeping our country, and we strive seriously to stop it immediately with the courage of our people. The African Organization for Rights and Development, who continue to make efforts and a great humanitarian spirit to stop this destructive war.
Your efforts are to shine a light in the darkness of these difficult times, and highlight the strength of the human spirit in confronting these difficulties. We are proud of you and appreciate your endless sacrifices in the service of humanity.
#World_Humanitarian_Day ❤️
#worldhumanitarianday ❤️
#AFORD
#Media_Office
On August 9, 2024, African organization for Rights Development (AFORD) organized a dialogue session attended by 20 participants at the organization’s headquarters in Kampala on gender-based violence and conflict in Sudan. Participants provided in-depth contextual analysis during the session, with advice for human rights assistance.
#AFORD #Rights #BANA #G_B_V
