The United Nations on Thursday reopened its headquarters in Khartoum, marking a gradual return of operations after nearly three years of suspension following the outbreak of conflict in Sudan.
The reopening coincides with the resumption of activities by the United Nations Development Programme.
Sudan’s Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, Mohi El-Din Salem, joined U.N. officials and representatives of the Khartoum state government at the ceremony.
In a statement, Salem said the move reflects renewed cooperation between Sudanese authorities and the United Nations, calling it a “positive indicator” of revived international partnerships and support for stabilization efforts.
Xu Haoliang, associate administrator of the U.N. Development Programme, said the return of U.N. agencies to Khartoum provides important support during a critical phase for the country.
He said the agency will focus on humanitarian assistance while strengthening the capacity of national institutions and local communities to support recovery and reconstruction.
The United Nations had relocated much of its operations outside Khartoum after conflict erupted, maintaining limited humanitarian activities through field offices in other parts of the country amid challenges including restricted access and damaged infrastructure.
Sudan is facing one of the region’s largest humanitarian crises. The war has displaced millions of people internally and across borders, while health and education services have deteriorated and food insecurity has worsened.
The United Nations has warned that humanitarian needs continue to grow as the conflict nears its third year. Under the 2026 Sudan Humanitarian Response Plan, about 33.7 million people are expected to require assistance this year, up by 3.3 million compared with 2025.