Minister of Agriculture Meets President of the International Fund for Agricultural Development

Federal Minister of Agriculture and Forests, Dr. Abubakr Omar, commended the International Fund for Agricultural Development’s (IFAD) swift response to the needs of small farmers and rural communities, during a meeting with IFAD President, Mr. Alfreo Lario, on Friday, October 21, at IFAD’s Rome headquarters. The meeting took place on the sidelines of the 52nd session of the Committee on World Food Security and was attended by Sudan’s Ambassador to Rome, Mr. Sid Al-Tayeb Ahmed.

Dr. Omar emphasized Sudan’s need for expanded support from IFAD, especially for small farmers facing challenges due to the destruction of agricultural infrastructure by Rapid Support Forces militias, including the theft of strategic reserves, burning of crops, and displacement of farmers. He highlighted ongoing collaborative projects with IFAD and the importance of sustained, increased assistance, specifically in value chain development and technical support.

Minister of Agriculture Meets President of the International Fund for Agricultural Development

On another note, Ambassador Sid Al-Tayeb commended the significant efforts that the Fund has been providing to Sudan in recent times, seizing the opportunity to invite Mr. Lario to visit Sudan as soon as possible. He also mentioned the current visit by Ms. Cindy McCain, Executive Director of the World Food Programme, to Sudan, which represents a message of solidarity with the country in these challenging circumstances.

Mr. Lario confirmed IFAD’s commitment to continued collaboration with Sudan, aiming to support small farmers and adapt projects that enhance stability and improve livelihoods amid Sudan’s challenging circumstances. He assured his intention to visit Sudan as soon as possible.