Ms. Martha Ama Akyaa Pobee, of the UN, informed the Security Council that the conflict in Sudan is profoundly impacting South Sudan’s humanitarian and security landscape, complicating peace efforts over Abyei. As insecurity disrupts resources and exacerbates refugee crises, support for UNISFA becomes crucial to facilitate renewed dialogue and ensure stability in the region.
On November 5, 2024, Ms. Martha Ama Akyaa Pobee, Assistant Secretary-General for Africa at the UN Department of Political and Peacebuilding Affairs and Peace Operations, addressed the Security Council regarding the ongoing crisis in Sudan and South Sudan. She emphasized that the persistent conflict in Sudan and political instability in South Sudan have significantly hindered crucial political discussions surrounding the Abyei region and border disputes. The situation remains dire, with escalating humanitarian needs exacerbated by the influx of refugees from Sudan into South Sudan, where resources are already stretched thin. During her briefing, Ms. Pobee reported that insecurity in South Sudan has interrupted oil production and exports, worsening its economic challenges. The humanitarian crisis has led to substantial displacement, with hundreds of thousands of Sudanese fleeing into South Sudan under harsh conditions, lacking sufficient access to essential services such as clean water, food, and healthcare. Additionally, the presence of armed groups in the Abyei area is intensifying existing tensions between local communities. Ms. Pobee remarked on the heavy toll that climate change has taken on the region, resulting in significant displacements due to recent floods. With ongoing conflicts between the Sudanese Armed Forces and the Rapid Support Forces persisting for almost nineteen months, the instability is radiating throughout the Horn of Africa and the Sahel, presenting severe humanitarian and economic ramifications for neighboring countries. She highlighted that achieving peace in Abyei and the surrounding areas necessitates a resolution to the conflict in Sudan, as per the stipulations of resolution 2046 (2012). On the topic of the United Nations Interim Security Force for Abyei (UNISFA), Ms. Pobee noted the absence of progress in dialogue over Abyei and border matters during 2024. However, UNISFA continues to diligently monitor the situation, advocating for renewed negotiations under the Joint Political and Security Mechanism. She expressed concern regarding unauthorized South Sudanese security forces operating within Abyei, which compromises UNISFA’s capacity to fulfill its mandate. Furthermore, the increasing number of displaced persons in Abyei is straining local resources, contributing to a rise in crime. Ms. Pobee urged the Security Council to bolster UNISFA’s capabilities and support the reinstatement of UN police deployments to restore the rule of law in the area. The United Nations remains committed to fostering stability and facilitating dialogue between the involved parties, even amid ongoing regional tensions.
The complex geopolitical landscape of Sudan and South Sudan continues to be marked by conflict and humanitarian crises. The Abyei region, a disputed territory between the two countries, has become a focal point for instability, complicating efforts for peace and recovery. The ongoing war in Sudan has resulted in significant refugee movements into South Sudan, where existing economic challenges are aggravated by insecurity. The mandate of UNISFA is critical for monitoring and supporting peace efforts in this volatile region, especially as political dialogues have largely stalled due to the persistent conflicts in both nations.
In summary, the situation in Sudan and South Sudan remains precarious, with the humanitarian crisis worsening as conflicts continue to impede political dialogue and stability. The dire need for adequate support for UNISFA has been underscored to ensure effective management of the challenging dynamics in the Abyei region and neighboring areas. Addressing the root conflicts in Sudan is essential for genuine progress towards a sustainable resolution in Abyei and beyond.
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