Over one million people have fled to South Sudan due to the ongoing conflict in Sudan. The IOM and UNHCR report widespread displacement, with critical needs for shelter, healthcare, and clean water. Support from the international community is essential to address the deepening humanitarian crisis and assist both displaced individuals and host communities.
South Sudan has recorded over one million new arrivals as a result of the ongoing conflict in Sudan, marking a significant milestone in the humanitarian crisis. This data was released by the International Organization for Migration (IOM) and the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR). Since fighting erupted in April 2023, many refugees have entered through Wunthou (Joda) and other strategic transit points, highlighting the urgent need for coordinated humanitarian support.
Most of the individuals fleeing to South Sudan are South Sudanese who had previously sought refuge in Sudan during South Sudan’s civil war. Additionally, many Sudanese and nationals from other countries are now seeking asylum in South Sudan due to the escalated violence. IOM and UNHCR are actively monitoring the flow and providing essential support to these displaced populations.
Both UN agencies have raised concerns regarding the new levels of displacement and are providing critical services such as transportation assistance, multi-purpose cash support, shelter, and access to healthcare. Sanaa Abdalla Omer, UNHCR South Sudan Deputy Representative, emphasized the dire situation and called upon the international community for increased support.
IOM’s commitment to addressing the urgent needs of those fleeing from Sudan is evident. Vijaya Souri, IOM South Sudan Chief of Mission, stated that providing ongoing transportation is vital to lessen strain on Renk County while ensuring sustainable support for host communities.
The solidarity of local communities continues to shine, yet essential resources remain under immense pressure, especially with a cholera outbreak exacerbating the demand for clean water. The rising number of displaced individuals emphasizes the critical need for humanitarian aid and funding.
As the crisis in Sudan escalates, IOM and UNHCR are actively working at border entry points to deliver life-saving assistance and facilitate onward movement to safety. However, current resources are insufficient, as evidenced by transit centers overflowing with many more individuals than intended capacity.
The South Sudan Humanitarian Needs and Response Plan 2025 reflects the escalating demands on humanitarian organizations, expecting to manage an additional 337,000 new arrivals. Acknowledgment of support from donors and partners has been essential, yet there remains a pressing need for more resources amidst this deepening humanitarian emergency.
The ongoing humanitarian crisis in South Sudan stems from protracted conflict in neighboring Sudan, which has resulted in significant displacement over the past two years. With fighting escalating, many citizens of South Sudan, who had previously sought refuge in Sudan, are now returning, further straining South Sudan’s already limited resources. UN agencies such as IOM and UNHCR are focused on coordinated responses to address the needs of both the displaced and host communities in South Sudan, which is grappling with a cholera outbreak and other critical health challenges.
In summary, the arrival of over one million displaced individuals into South Sudan due to the instability in Sudan illustrates the urgent humanitarian crisis facing the region. With local resources already stretched thin, it is imperative for the international community to increase support and funding to effectively address the needs of both new arrivals and the communities hosting them. Continuous monitoring and assistance from IOM and UNHCR will be essential in navigating this growing crisis.
Original Source: allafrica.com
