Norway Boosts Support for Sudanese Refugees in Egypt Amid Rising Numbers

The Royal Norwegian Embassy in Cairo has pledged $1.9 million to support the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) in assisting Sudanese refugees in Egypt. 

The funding will enhance UNHCR's capacity to provide critical protection and services to over half a million Sudanese refugees who have fled to Egypt since the outbreak of conflict in Sudan in April 2023.

The majority of these refugees are women and children, many of whom lack basic resources for survival. Norway's contribution will help UNHCR address urgent needs, including safeguarding refugees from child labor, gender-based violence, and exploitation, while also supporting host communities.

"As the conflict in Sudan persists, the UNHCR plays an essential role in supporting the influx of Sudanese refugees into Egypt. I am proud that Norway can contribute to this vital work," said Norwegian Ambassador Hilde Klemetsdal during the signing ceremony.

UNHCR projects that the flow of Sudanese refugees into Egypt will continue into 2025, underscoring the importance of sustained international support. Without such assistance, Egypt’s ability to maintain its tradition of offering refuge to those fleeing war and conflict would be severely strained.

Dr. Hanan Hamdan, UNHCR Representative to Egypt and the League of Arab States, expressed gratitude for Norway’s support, stating, "This generous contribution will significantly enhance our ability to deliver critical protection services, build community resilience, and ensure the well-being of vulnerable refugees. Norway's support is a beacon of hope for those affected by the conflict and for host communities sustaining their hospitality."

Norway is a longstanding strategic partner and one of UNHCR’s top global donors. In 2023, it contributed over $129 million to the agency, with nearly half of that amount unearmarked, allowing for flexible allocation to areas of greatest need.

Beyond financial contributions, Norway also supports UNHCR’s Nansen Refugee Award, which recognizes exceptional efforts to aid displaced people. This year, the award for the Middle East and North Africa region went to Sudanese refugee Nada Fadol, who has mobilized aid for hundreds of refugee families in Egypt.

With the ongoing conflict in Sudan, Norway’s latest commitment highlights the critical need for international solidarity in addressing one of the region's most pressing humanitarian crises.