South Sudan has experienced a significant influx of over one million displaced individuals fleeing conflict in Sudan, according to recent data from IOM and UNHCR. Most arrivals are South Sudanese nationals, many of whom had previously sought refuge in Sudan. Efforts to provide critical humanitarian support continue, but resource limitations are becoming increasingly apparent amidst an expanding crisis.
As of January 21, 2024, South Sudan has welcomed over one million individuals fleeing the violence in Sudan, marking a significant milestone amid a continued humanitarian crisis resulting from nearly two years of conflict. According to data from the International Organization for Migration (IOM) and the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR), since conflicts escalated in April 2023, an estimated 770,200 people have entered South Sudan through various border points, particularly Wunthou, which serves as a primary entry. Additional critical transit points include Majokyinthiou, Panakuach, and Amiet.
The influx predominantly consists of South Sudanese nationals who had sought refuge in Sudan, many of whom were initially displaced during South Sudan’s civil war. Furthermore, thousands of Sudanese nationals are now seeking shelter in South Sudan for the first time, alongside individuals from multiple countries residing in Sudan. IOM and UNHCR are actively engaging in biometric registration and monitoring efforts to document this increase in arrivals since the onset of the conflict.
Both IOM and UNHCR express serious concern regarding the unprecedented number of displaced individuals arriving in South Sudan. Their responses involve providing essential services, including transportation assistance, cash support, shelter materials, protection protocols, and healthcare services. Sanaa Abdalla Omer, UNHCR Deputy Representative, emphasizes the urgent need for international support, noting the extraordinary generosity shown by local communities amidst dwindling resources.
Vijaya Souri, IOM Chief of Mission, remarks on the urgency to enhance services for both displaced individuals and local communities, as vital infrastructures become overwhelmed. The ongoing cholera outbreak further highlights the critical need for improved water, sanitation, and healthcare facilities in the region, exacerbating the existing humanitarian challenges.
The sustained escalation of displacement and its impact illustrates the pressing need for heightened humanitarian assistance and funding. IOM and UNHCR continue to coordinate efforts to facilitate the relocation of new arrivals to transit centers in Renk and Malakal. Currently, the transit centers in Renk are hosting over 16,000 individuals, far exceeding their designed capacity of 4,800.
The 2025 South Sudan Humanitarian Needs and Response Plan anticipates an increase in displacement pressures, with projections of another 337,000 new arrivals. As the situation evolves, both agencies acknowledge the support from donors and partners, while underscoring that additional resources are critical to manage this deepening humanitarian emergency effectively.
In recent months, South Sudan has become a refuge for many fleeing from the turmoil in Sudan. Over one million individuals have crossed the borders due to escalating violence since April 2023. The large influx highlights the impact of prolonged conflict in the region, with humanitarian organizations stretching to meet the urgent needs of both refugees and local communities. The situation calls for a coordinated response from national and international bodies to provide essential support and resources.
The humanitarian crisis in South Sudan continues to deepen, with an alarming increase in displaced individuals from Sudan. The collaborative efforts led by IOM and UNHCR reflect a significant response to the urgent needs of these populations. However, as local resources dwindle, the necessity for international aid becomes increasingly critical to ensure adequate support for both displaced communities and host populations. Immediate action is required to address the pressing humanitarian needs presented by this crisis.
Original Source: reliefweb.int
