Capacity Development support to Sudanese Civil Society

Commissioned by the German Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ) and implemented by the Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit (GIZ) GmbH, the project "Strengthening Good Governance in Sudan" will run from May 2024 to April 2028. Its activities cover both Sudan and the Sudanese diaspora in the neighbouring countries. Two years after the outbreak of war between the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) and the Rapid Support Forces (RSF), Sudan is facing one of the most severe political and humanitarian crises of the decade. The ongoing conflict has caused mass displacement affecting millions of people and triggered famine conditions in several regions. Reports of human rights violations continue to rise, adding to the insecurity and mistrust among communities. In this volatile context, civil society organisations (CSOs) have emerged as crucial actors. Both in Sudan and within the diaspora, they deliver life-saving humanitarian assistance, mediate in local disputes, promote civic participation, and work to preserve social cohesion. However, despite their dedication and deep local knowledge, many CSOs lack the organisational structures, technical expertise, and psychosocial resilience to operate effectively under such extreme conditions. The project aims to ensure that, by 2028, democracy-oriented CSOs in Sudan and abroad have significantly strengthened their organisational capacity, public visibility, and political influence, positioning them as central voices in shaping an inclusive and peaceful future for Sudan. A particular focus is placed on empowering organisations led by women, youth, and other structurally marginalised groups, ensuring that their perspectives and needs are meaningfully represented. The approach combines four mutually reinforcing components: 1. Capacity Development: Selected CSOs receive tailored organisational development support and staff training. Training modules include peacebuilding methodologies, inclusive leadership, project cycle management, security risk assessment and mitigation, and resilience-building through Mental Health and Psychosocial Support (MHPSS). This support equips organisations not only with technical skills but also with the psychological resilience to sustain their work in high-stress environments. 2. Financial Support: Through the Qudra Fund, the project provides grants to local Sudanese CSOs and initiatives that directly contribute to peace and inclusive development. Funded activities address urgent needs such as countering hate speech and disinformation, advancing women"s empowerment, facilitating local conflict resolution, and delivering civic education. Grant recipients also benefit from the project"s broader capacity building and networking activities, creating a comprehensive support ecosystem. 3. Networking and Cooperation: The project supports safe, inclusive spaces for Sudanese civil society actors to connect, exchange experiences, and develop joint strategies. By fostering dialogue and cooperation, it strengthens collective advocacy efforts and builds cross-regional and cross-sector alliances, which are essential for promoting peaceful and inclusive governance. 4. Analysis & Risk Management: An internal Analysis & Risk Unit continuously monitors the political, regional, and local context, ensuring that all project interventions are conflict-sensitive and adaptable. The unit supports both the project team and partners with up-to-date risk analyses and technical advice, particularly in security risk management, enabling informed decision-making in rapidly changing circumstances. By combining targeted capacity building, direct financial support, networking opportunities, and robust risk management, the project strengthens the resilience, reach, and influence of Sudanese CSOs. This integrated approach enables them to operate effectively despite instability, advocate for inclusive governance, and play a leading role in building the foundations for a peaceful, democratic, and socially cohesive Sudan.