Over 50,000 people have been displaced in South Sudan due to recent clashes between government forces and opposition groups, risking a fragile peace agreement. Both humanitarian efforts and critical health services are being compromised as violence continues in the Upper Nile region.
Since February, over 50,000 individuals have been displaced in South Sudan due to clashes between forces loyal to President Salva Kiir and First Vice President Riek Machar, as reported by a United Nations agency. The rising tensions in Nasir County, Upper Nile State, jeopardize an already fragile peace-sharing agreement, posing significant risks to vulnerable communities.
Anita Kiki Gbeho from the United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) stated that the ongoing violence is exacerbating the plight of the affected populations and has necessitated the cessation of essential life-saving services. Recently, an airstrike by the South Sudanese government in Nasir County resulted in the deaths of at least 20 individuals, including children, according to area commissioner James Gatluak.
OCHA has indicated that approximately 10,000 displaced individuals have sought refuge in Ethiopia, while 23 humanitarian workers have been compelled to evacuate the area, leading to the closure of a cholera treatment unit in Nasir. Gbeho urged all parties involved to permit humanitarian access to those in need, particularly women, children, and the elderly.
Recent reports from Doctors Without Borders (MSF) revealed 1,300 cholera cases in Akobo County, South Sudan, amidst the fighting that risks undermining the fragile 2018 peace agreement. Kiir’s allies blame Machar’s forces for inciting unrest in Nasir County, collaborating with the White Army, a faction of armed youths from Machar’s Nuer ethnic group, which escalated tensions by overrunning a military base earlier this month. A UN rescue attempt resulted in fatalities, including a UN helicopter pilot and a senior South Sudanese general.
The situation in South Sudan remains dire, with over 50,000 displaced and ongoing violence threatening humanitarian efforts. The renewed clashes between the forces of President Kiir and Vice President Machar put at risk a critical peace accord and exacerbate the suffering of already vulnerable communities. Urgent action is required to facilitate humanitarian access and prevent further deterioration of the situation.
Original Source: www.wionews.com
