UN Urges Protection for Civilians Amid Rising Violence in South Sudan
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Synopsis
On March 18, a UN envoy raised alarms about the increasing violence in South Sudan's Nasir, Ulang, and Baliet counties, stressing the need for the protection of civilians and humanitarian efforts amidst escalating conflicts.
Key Takeaways
- UN calls for the safety of civilians in conflict areas.
- Escalating violence has displaced over 50,000 people.
- Cholera outbreak worsens due to disrupted humanitarian services.
- 5.4 million individuals require urgent assistance.
- Insecurity hampers humanitarian operations across South Sudan.
Juba, March 18 (NationPress) A United Nations representative on Tuesday voiced serious concern regarding the increasing violence in South Sudan's Nasir, Ulang, and Baliet counties, which is adversely impacting the local communities and hindering humanitarian efforts.
UN humanitarian coordinator for South Sudan, Anita Kiki Gbeho, urged the parties involved in the conflict to prioritize the safety of civilians, humanitarian personnel, and essential infrastructure.
"The ongoing violence is placing already at-risk communities in even greater jeopardy and leading to the halt of crucial services. I implore all involved to permit humanitarian workers safe access to those in need, particularly women, children, and the elderly," Gbeho stated in a declaration made in Juba, the capital of South Sudan.
She indicated that the violence, which began in late February, has already displaced approximately 50,000 individuals, including 10,000 who have sought refuge in neighboring Ethiopia.
Reports indicate that over 20 individuals have lost their lives, with numerous others injured on the outskirts of Nasir, situated near the South Sudan-Ethiopia border, according to Xinhua news agency.
On March 7, a significant number of South Sudan People's Defence Forces soldiers, including a general, along with one UN staff member were killed when the White Army militia group fired upon a UN helicopter engaged in an evacuation operation in Nasir.
Gbeho pointed out that the prevailing insecurity has resulted in the relocation of 23 humanitarian workers and the shutdown of the cholera treatment center in Nasir, exacerbating the ongoing cholera outbreak in Ulang, Nasir, and Baliet counties, where 840 cholera cases have recently been reported.
She added that the situation in Nasir is part of a series of incidents across South Sudan since January, affecting areas in Greater Equatoria and Greater Bahr el Ghazal, where violence has similarly impacted local populations and caused displacement.
"The humanitarian community is doing everything possible, but insecurity and global funding reductions are hindering our capacity to provide essential support," Gbeho remarked. "At present, 5.4 million people, more than half of whom are children, need life-saving aid and protection ahead of the flood season."
