04 July 2011 - The UNAMID Deputy Joint Special Representative (DJSR), Mohamed Yonis, yesterday addressed the Sudanese parliament on the outcome of the Darfur International Conference on Water for Sustainable Peace held in Khartoum on 27-28 June.

Mr. Yonis commended the partnership between the Government of Sudan, UN country team, non-government organisations and UNAMID, that was fostered and strengthened throughout preparations for the conference. He briefed the parliament on UNAMID’s role in improving access to water resources, including 43 wells built in Darfur and plans to dig 149 more. In addition, the Mission will be building 4 earth dams which will contribute to recharging aquifers and enhance the access to water for nomadic communities.

Also in attendance were the State Minister of Water, Dr. Salaheldien Yousif and UNICEF Country Representative for Sudan Nils Kastberg.

A high-level committee, chaired by the State Minister of Water, will ensure that planned projects are carried out. The technical and high-level committees will meet weekly.

Communication and Public Information Division Media Contacts
Kemal Saïki, Director; saiki@un.org; tel.: +249 (0) 92 244 3529; mobile: +249 (0) 92 241 0020
Mayada Umbadda, Media Relations, umbadda@un.org, mobile: +249 (0)91 250 1966