The July 11-19 talks in Geneva sought to address the catastrophic humanitarian situation and the need for urgent action to ensure that aid arrives safely alongside the protection of civilians in the nation.

“I am counting on the parties to quickly translate their willingness to engage with me into tangible progress on the ground,” the representative added in a press release.

The United Nations, he added, will continue to do all it can to support the population. After more than 15 months of hostilities, more than 10 million people have been forced to flee their homes in the African nation, equivalent to one-fifth of its population.

According to UN figures, nearly eight million of the displaced remain within national borders and more than half of them are children.

Another two million were forced to cross into neighboring countries that also face their own challenges.

At the same time, UN workers warn of major obstacles to operating on the ground, where insecurity, access limitations and funding shortages reign.

The Humanitarian Response Plan for the country is barely 30% funded, or $820 million received out of the $2,7 billion needed.

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