South Sudan remains a high priority for ICRC: official
January 17, 2016 (MALAKAL) – South Sudan remains one of the top priorities in terms of humanitarian response for the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC), Christine Beerli, its vice-president said.
“South Sudan remains one of ICRC’s top priorities in terms of humanitarian response. People have been significantly affected by displacement, hunger and insecurity,” said the ICRC vice-president.
“The ICRC reaffirms its commitment to continue providing humanitarian emergency assistance while reinforcing people’s resilience”, she added.
During her meetings with officials, Beerli reportedly underlined the importance of safe access to carry out humanitarian operations in the field. She also called for the respect of civilians.
“To carry out our work, ICRC staff must continue to be granted unimpeded access to those in need. It is crucial that all parties involved in the conflict respect fundamental humanitarian principles”, she said.
A group of private donors from different sectors, including financial, pharmaceutical, education and technology companies accompanied Beerli who met affected communities in Jonglei and Upper Nile states.
“The private sector plays an increasing role in supporting financially ICRC activities around the world. South Sudan is our biggest operation in Africa and the second largest worldwide, after Syria”, said Jürg Eglin, head of ICRC in South Sudan.
“That requires extensive resources that come partly from corporate donors, who also want to see what the reality on the ground is,” he added.
Currently, the ICRC, in cooperation with the South Sudan Red Cross, runs a wide range of activities in the country such as the provision of food, water, health care and protection for the most severely affected communities.
(ST)