Lifesaving Support Since 2015
The Sudanese American Medical Association (SAMA) launched its Medical Supplies Program in 2015 with a mission to deliver high-impact medical aid to Sudanese communities. Through strong partnerships and a license from the U.S. Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC), SAMA was able to ship critical medical equipment and consumables, even during times of international sanctions.
Between 2015 and 2023, SAMA shipped six containers of medical supplies, valued at nearly $2 million and weighing over 30 metric tonnes, reaching more than 40 hospitals and health centers across six states in Sudan. For more details, click here.
Adapting in a Changing Landscape
In early 2023, SAMA’s sixth container of supplies arrived in Sudan. New regulations required that ownership of medical donations be transferred to the Sudan health authorities before customs clearance. Shortly afterward, the national security situation deteriorated significantly, creating new logistical and operational challenges for distributing aid effectively.
Current Approach and Considerations
In July 2023, SAMA re-established its office in Port Sudan to assess how best to continue supporting healthcare providers on the ground. While exploring the option of sending additional containers, we learned that current import regulations still require the full transfer of ownership of donated supplies.
In this environment, we cannot currently ensure the same level of oversight and distribution tracking that has been central to our program’s success and donor confidence. As a result, we have temporarily paused container shipments until conditions allow for more transparent and effective delivery mechanisms.
Despite this limitation, SAMA continues to deliver critical medical supplies through alternative local channels. We source supplies from local markets or from nonprofit organizations in Sudan that maintain emergency stockpiles. One recent example is our response to the May/June 2025 cholera outbreak in Khartoum, where SAMA was able to mobilize and distribute essential supplies swiftly by leveraging local resources and partnerships.
Upholding Standards and Trust
Our decision reflects SAMA’s commitment to international best practices in humanitarian aid:
- Accountability: We aim to ensure all donations reach their intended recipients and can be tracked throughout their journey.
- Responsibility to Donors: Many of our supporters rely on clear reporting to know their contributions are making a difference.
- Alignment with Sector Norms: Transparency and careful stewardship of aid are crucial for maintaining trust and achieving impact.
Looking Ahead
SAMA remains deeply committed to supporting Sudan’s healthcare system. We will continue to monitor the situation and re-evaluate the feasibility of importing medical supplies in the future. In the meantime, we are focusing on other effective ways to strengthen health services and support local medical teams.
