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Reports say many of the refugees are women and children
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Geneva - The United Nations Refugee Agency (UNHCR) has expressed deep concern over a sharp increase in the number of people fleeing violence in Sudan and seeking refuge in neighboring South Sudan.
Speaking at a press conference in Geneva, UNHCR spokesperson Olga Sarrado revealed that over 20,000 Sudanese from border villages crossed into South Sudan last week, marking a threefold increase in daily arrivals compared to previous weeks.
“Since Saturday, there have been an additional estimated 7,000 to 10,000 new arrivals each day, including South Sudanese refugees leaving camps in White Nile State where they had been residing in Sudan,” Sarrado reported. She emphasized that women and children make up the majority of those displaced, highlighting the devastating impact of the conflict on vulnerable populations.
Overcrowded transit centers
The influx has overwhelmed transit centers, particularly in Renk, where nearly 17,000 people are now sheltering – an increase of 4,000 in just two weeks. The centers are struggling to provide adequate resources, with water and healthcare identified as the most urgent needs amid an ongoing cholera outbreak.
Risks inside Sudan
Sarrado also highlighted the dangers within Sudan, where hostilities around refugee camps and areas hosting displaced civilians pose severe risks. “These threats hinder the ability of the Refugee Agency and its partners to deliver life-saving protection and assistance,” she said.
Regional displacement crisis
Since the conflict erupted in Sudan in April 2023, over 12 million people have been displaced. More than 3 million have sought refuge in neighboring countries, making this one of the world's largest and most urgent displacement crises.
The UNHCR has called on the international community to step up support for both the displaced populations and the host countries bearing the brunt of the crisis.
“The scale of this displacement requires a coordinated and sustained response to address the growing humanitarian needs and prevent further loss of life,” Sarrado urged.
As the situation continues to deteriorate, the Refugee Agency remains committed to working with its partners to provide life-saving assistance to those affected by the ongoing violence in Sudan.
Torch Media Africa
