Conflict in Sudan severely impacting South Sudan, says UN special representative

July 8, 2023 (JUBA) – The head of the United Nations Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS) has emphasized the urgent need for resolving the conflict in neighbouring Sudan, highlighting its far-reaching impact on multiple aspects.

During Friday’s 30th plenary meeting of the Reconstituted Joint Monitoring Evaluation Commission, Nicholas Haysom made these remarks.

“Since our last meeting, both you and I have briefed the United Nations Security Council on the political and security developments over the last three months. I highlighted that the conflict in Sudan continues to affect the political, humanitarian, security, and economic situation in South Sudan,” stated Haysom.

He praised South Sudan’s positive role in welcoming returnees and refugees, regardless of documentation, and acknowledged the constructive efforts of the Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD) and South Sudan in the Sudanese mediation process. Haysom also cautioned against diverting attention from South Sudan’s peace process.

“The ongoing conflict in Sudan continues to drive thousands of people across the borders into South Sudan, seeking refuge and safety. As people arrive, transit, and move to their destinations of choice, increased competition among communities in congested sites over scarce resources has exacerbated existing tensions, as we witnessed in Renk,” he added.

Since the crisis began, South Sudan has seen a significant influx of individuals, with 149,373 people from 33,797 households arriving as of July 4, 2023.

A major concern is the large number of vulnerable arrivals, including unaccompanied or separated children, the elderly, disabled individuals, pregnant women, and those with urgent medical needs.

Many of the returnees originate from urban and peri-urban areas, where they have limited experience living and working in rural farming communities. Consequently, they encounter challenges in adapting to the income opportunities that exist in South Sudan.

While the United Nations supports efforts to secure a cessation of hostilities in Sudan, led by the United States of America and Saudi Arabia, the decision by Sudan’s military leadership to expel the head of the UN mission in Sudan has posed challenges.

(ST)