Over one million individuals have fled to South Sudan due to the Sudan conflict, with over 770,200 arriving since April 2023. IOM and UNHCR are actively providing support, including healthcare, shelter, and transport assistance. The crisis exacerbates resource strains in local communities, highlighting the urgent need for international support and funding to manage the growing displacement emergency. “The arrival of over a million people into South Sudan is stark and sobering statistic…” – Sanaa Abdalla Omer, UNHCR South Sudan Deputy Representative.
Recent reports indicate that over one million individuals have sought refuge in South Sudan due to the ongoing conflict in Sudan. This unprecedented influx has been documented by the International Organization for Migration (IOM) and the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR). Since the outbreak of fighting in April 2023, approximately 770,200 people have crossed into South Sudan through the northern border at Wunthou (Joda), with additional crossings occurring at strategic points like Majokyinthiou, Panakuach, and Abyei Amiet.
The majority of the newly arrived population consists of South Sudanese nationals who had previously taken refuge in Sudan, alongside thousands of Sudanese refugees and nationals from other countries seeking safety. IOM and UNHCR have been actively engaged in registering these individuals, monitoring their movement, and tracking population changes since the conflict escalated.
IOM and UNHCR express grave concern regarding this new peak in displacement. They are providing various forms of support, including transportation, cash assistance, shelter, and healthcare services. Additionally, they provide mental health support and resources for water, sanitation, and hygiene, all of which are critical amid this ongoing humanitarian crisis.
“The arrival of over a million people into South Sudan is stark and sobering statistic… UNHCR is working hand in hand with the Government and partners to coordinate and deliver critical, life-saving support…” – Sanaa Abdalla Omer, UNHCR South Sudan Deputy Representative. “IOM is committed to addressing the urgent needs … it has become critical to also ensure more sustainable support for both displaced and host communities.” – Vijaya Souri, IOM South Sudan Chief of Mission.
While local communities have shown remarkable generosity, essential resources, particularly healthcare and sanitation, are increasingly strained. The ongoing cholera outbreak exemplifies the urgent need for clean water and fortified healthcare systems in South Sudan. As displacement continues to rise, humanitarian organizations call for intensified support and funding.
IOM and UNHCR continue to facilitate life-saving assistance to new arrivals through coordinated efforts with local authorities. Refugees from Sudan are transported to designated areas, while South Sudanese returnees are aided in reaching their final destinations. Current resources are insufficient, as demonstrated by transit centers in Renk that are accommodating significantly more individuals than their intended capacity, exacerbating the strain on limited services.
The South Sudan Humanitarian Needs and Response Plan 2025 anticipates further increases in displaced populations and emphasizes the need for continuous support for humanitarian organizations. While acknowledging their donors and partners, IOM and UNHCR urgently request additional resources to effectively address the deepening crisis.
The current humanitarian situation in South Sudan is a result of the protracted conflict in Sudan that has displaced over a million individuals. Since the fighting escalated in April 2023, humanitarian agencies have been working tirelessly to register and provide assistance to these new arrivals. South Sudan, already facing various challenges due to resource limitations and a cholera outbreak, is now experiencing heightened demands for essential services as it receives a significant number of refugees and returnees from Sudan. The International Organization for Migration and the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees are the primary organizations coordinating support for these displaced populations. Their responsibilities include providing urgent care, coordinating transport, and ensuring basic necessities are met in the transit areas where displaced persons are arriving. The increase in displacement is compounded by the struggles of host communities in South Sudan, who display commendable generosity but face their own challenges in managing limited resources. The situation calls for international attention and support to adequately respond to the humanitarian needs arising from this crisis.
In summary, South Sudan faces a significant humanitarian crisis with the arrival of over one million refugees and returnees from Sudan. With inadequate resources and extensive strains on local services, the demands far exceed the current capabilities of humanitarian organizations. Continued and enhanced support from the international community is crucial to meet the urgent needs of both the displaced populations and the South Sudanese communities hosting them. The coordination among IOM, UNHCR, and local authorities remains vital in delivering essential services to address this deepening emergency.
Original Source: allafrica.com
