An International Organization, Oxfam has raised concern that the Humanitarian response for returnees in Renk may be overwhelmed if funding is not availed.
The agency reported that more than 3,000 returnees arriving daily arrival as the fighting between the Sudanese Army and Rapid Support Forces continues.
Oxfam Country Director in South Sudan Dr. Manenji Mangundu says more than 17 thousand arrive daily in Renk.
“Since the last weeks of October, we have seen a new record surge in arrivals. We are talking of nearly 3,000 people arriving daily into Renk, which means more than 17,000 people every week, as compared to not more than 10,000 people traveling further South in the same period,” he said
Mangundu is worried about a possible outbreak of waterborne diseases and the easy spread of any contagious diseases due to insufficient health screening processes on arrival.
“With overcrowding at the transit center, sanitation levels have continued to deteriorate. We are worried that there is a risk of a potential outbreak of waterborne diseases and ground for easy spread of any contagious diseases that are rarely detected due to insufficient health screening processes on arrival.”
Dr. Manenji calls for the dignified resettlement of returnees and refugees in a permanent location, away from the overcrowded transit camp as Oxfam continues to support them with water and sanitation services.
“Oxfam together with other aid agencies has been supporting returnees and refugee arrivals with water and sanitation services, alongside a host of protection-related interventions. While we do so, we are mindful of the need for dignified resettlement to a more permanent location, away from the overcrowded transit camp.”
He adds that dignified living spaces will be good for sanitation services and other mitigation of any concerns that arise.
Oxfam regrets the significant scale-up in fighting across the border as they see several refugees and returnees a rise in arrivals to South Sudan.
“We note with sadness the significant scale up in fighting across the border, and with this, we are concerned, as we see a rise in number of arrivals in South Sudan.”
Oxfam’s director calls on donors to consider the plight of the women and children who brave the heavy rains in the open spaces, who have no reason to suffer.
“We note with sadness the significant scale up in fighting across the border, and with this, we are concerned, as we see a rise in number of arrivals in South Sudan.”
Oxfam reported that the conflict has displaced over 5.8 million people both within Sudan and neighboring countries, increasing the demand for humanitarian aid.