12 May 2011 - The framework for the Darfur International Conference on Water for Sustainable Peace was introduced to donors in Khartoum yesterday at the Grand Holiday Villa Hotel by conference sponsors--the Sudan Ministry of Irrigation and Water Resources, UNAMID, the UN Country Team, UNICEF, the UN Environment Programme and UNESCO. To be held in the Friendship Hall in Khartoum on 27 and 28 June, the conference intends to draw more than 200 participants including experts on water resources development and to appeal for funding for 56 projects valued at $1.43 billion.

The scarcity of water and lack of water management in Darfur, compounded with a fast-growing population has contributed to conflict in Darfur, conference organizers say. The conference is to build on the idea that a sustainable water sector is essential for a sustainable peace.

   Donors briefing on Darfur International Conference on Water for Sustainable Peace. Khartoum, 11 May 2011

   Photo by Olivier Chassot/UNAMID 

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