A coalition of 15 nonprofits, humanitarian aid organizations, and funders will kick off this year's Clinton Global Initiative annual meeting with a commitment to tackle the ongoing humanitarian crisis in Sudan. The Coalition for Mutual Aid in Sudan, which includes prominent organizations such as The Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, Global Giving, Global Fund for Women, and The Unitarian Universalist Service Committee, has pledged to donate a minimum of $2 million to mutual aid groups in Sudan by the end of the year. Additionally, they aim to raise an additional $4.5 million for these groups within the next two years.
The commitment is part of over 100 expected pledges at the two-day meeting, where political, business, and philanthropic leaders will convene to address global challenges. This year's theme, 'What's Working,' emphasizes seeking effective solutions and programs amidst turbulent times.
First Lady Jill Biden is set to announce a new women's health initiative at the CGI meeting, highlighting the need for increased research and funding in women's health to address various conditions like heart disease and cancers.
With Sudan facing a severe humanitarian crisis, World Food Program director Cindy McCain has raised concerns about the escalating conflict, which has left 25 million people in Sudan grappling with acute hunger. The ongoing conflict, which erupted in April 2023, has resulted in over 14,000 deaths and 33,000 injuries.
The Center for Disaster Philanthropy underscores the critical role of Sudanese community groups as frontline responders, given the challenges in international aid delivery. More than 12 million people have been displaced in Sudan, creating the world's largest displacement and hunger crisis.
Philanthropic leaders, including Bill Gates and Jose Andres, will share insights on their work during CGI, alongside discussions on initiatives supporting parents of children harmed online and efforts to reduce violence against children. The conference will feature addresses from global leaders and CEOs from prominent companies like Pfizer, Mastercard, and IKEA.
