Muna Eltahir, head of Practical Action in Sudan, describes the recent USAID cuts as unprecedented, leading to severe challenges for communities lacking essential services. The charity has historically provided vital support during crises but faces a significant loss of funding, reducing operational capacity significantly. Despite these obstacles, the organization remains proactive in seeking alternative funding sources.
Muna Eltahir, head of the Sudanese charity Practical Action, has expressed deep concerns regarding the severe budget cuts imposed by USAID. The organization has been instrumental in aiding communities during significant civil unrest and climate change challenges in Sudan. Eltahir emphasized that the recent reduction in aid has created an unprecedented strain, leaving vulnerable communities without essential resources during Ramadan.
Practical Action focuses on enhancing local farming through drought-resistant crops, as well as providing necessary infrastructure such as water tanks linked to local water sources. Additionally, the charity supports access to solar energy, essential for both lighting and irrigation. Before the USAID cuts, Practical Action’s initiatives reached approximately 400,000 individuals in the Kassala and Gedarif states.
The impact of the USAID cuts has been devastating, particularly as funding from the agency ceased abruptly in January. This funding had facilitated a project aimed at supporting 126,000 people with critical supplies and infrastructure. Eltahir recounted the email directive she received, which mandated the halt of all project activities, resulting in significant layoffs and operational interruptions, directly affecting community support just before Ramadan.
Despite the challenges, the communities have displayed understanding regarding the funding cuts. Fortunately, Practical Action had managed to distribute seeds and tools ahead of the funding cut; however, equipment meant for enhancing solar power and water access remains in limbo.
Moving forward, Practical Action is actively seeking alternative funding sources to bridge the gap left by the USAID cuts. Eltahir remains optimistic, citing the organization’s diverse funding base as a strength. Although the loss of USAID’s support—25% of their resources—is a significant setback, Practical Action intends to continue aiding the communities to the best of their ability.
In summary, the cuts to USAID funding represent a substantial challenge for Practical Action and the communities it serves in Sudan. With over 30 years of experience, Muna Eltahir has noted that these reductions have had a dramatic impact on essential humanitarian efforts, particularly during critical periods such as Ramadan. Nevertheless, the organization is committed to seeking alternate funding avenues to continue its vital work.
Original Source: www.context.news
