Churches in Yei River State on Friday launched a humanitarian appeal, asking for emergency relief support to displaced people and host communities in the state.
The churches worry that the impact of the crisis worsened political and humanitarian situation of citizens, making many to flee due to hunger, Radio Easter reports.
The joint statement read by Bishop Erkolano Lodu of Yei Catholic Diocese, notes that unrest in the surrounding areas of Yei continues despite the ceasefire declared by the government.
He adds that the crisis has also affected the work of the church and organizations providing emergency assistance to the citizens.
Meanwhile, Bishop Hillary Luate Adeba of Episcopal Church of Sudan and South Sudan says the appeal now clears the misconception that Yei has been one of the food suppliers of South Sudan.
UNHCR Associate Field Officer, Mohammed Tahr says improving security should be the top priority to allow humanitarian agencies and organizations carry out their work.
On her part, State Minister of Agriculture and Forestry, Huda Micah Laila, stresses government’s readiness to work for peace and urges armed group to pursue dialogue.
The occasion was attended by representatives from different religious denominations, government officials and humanitarian partners.
The first appeal launched on Friday was held at Yei Catholic Diocesan Secretariat.