More than 510 Sudanese refugees fleeing violence near the border region around Malakal have arrived in Western Equatoria State this week.
Refugee Commissioner for Western Equatoria State, Paulino Zizi Bugwa confirmed the arrival of the latest group at a press briefing on Thursday.
The Refugee Affairs Commission, in coordination with the state government, says an additional 1,500 refugees are expected to arrive in Western Equatoria State in the coming days.
These refugees are said to be part of a larger population displaced by the ongoing conflict in Sudan, and they have been given the choice to settle in Upper Nile State, Western Bahr el Ghazal State, or Western Equatoria State.
Makpandu Refugee Camp in Western Equatoria offers security and a chance for the new arrivals to rebuild their lives. “Each family is allocated a 3-by-3 square kilometer plot of land for cultivation and settlement,” explained Commissioner Zizi.
This land distribution aims to support the refugees’ self-sufficiency and contribute to their mental and physical well-being.
South Sudan’s efforts to resettle refugees align with international agreements signed by President Salva Kiir Mayardit, which obligate the government to provide protection, shelter, and essential services to those displaced by conflict.
The continued influx of refugees from Sudan highlights the region’s ongoing instability.
Both the South Sudanese government and international humanitarian organizations are working to ensure that displaced individuals receive the necessary support and protection.