The ongoing conflict in Sudan has forced thousands of South Sudanese to flee back to their home country, seeking safety and assistance.
By Aguok Chok
At least 2,600 South Sudanese refugees have arrived in Northern Bahr el-Ghazal from Sudan since January, according to officials.
Lual Awach, chairperson of the Relief and Rehabilitation Commission (RRC) in Northern Bahr el-Ghazal, said both South Sudanese returnees and Sudanese refugees continue to arrive from Sudan’s West Kordufan and South Darfur States.
“The returnees and Sudanese refugees are still arriving from Sudan. We have received 2,600 returnees between January and February,” Awach said.
“They come daily via our borderlines with Sudan’s West Kordufan and East Darfur states.”
According to Awach, the flux of the returnees has led to an overwhelming demand for food, medical care, and shelter.
He appealed for urgent humanitarian assistance to support the growing number of displaced people.
A security official, who requested anonymity, confirmed that authorities are closely monitoring the situation.
“We receive returnees from different parts of Sudan like Al Jazirah,” the official stated. “Many enter through our State and then move to Warrap, Western Bahr el-Ghazal, and other areas.”
The Commissioner of West County, Abuol Akok Akok also confirmed the influx of the returnees.
“We do receive returnees,” she said. “The last group arrived on 5 February, and I have inspected their camps.”
However, she did not provide an exact number of those who arrived this month.
“I need time to gather the right information,” she added.
The ongoing conflict in Sudan has forced thousands of South Sudanese to flee back to their home country, seeking safety and assistance.
The humanitarian situation remains critical, with aid agencies struggling to meet the needs of the displaced populations.
Authorities in Northern Bahr el Ghazal have called on the national government and international organizations to step in and provide more resources. With returnees continuing to cross the border daily, the pressure on local communities and existing aid programs is growing.
Despite the hardships, the returnees feel relieved to be back in South Sudan, even as they wait for support to rebuild their lives.
“We do receive returnees. The last group arrived on 5 February, and I have inspected their camps,” said Commissioner of Aweil West County, Abuol Akok Akok.