The UN Refugee Agency or UNHCR in South Sudan commended the Transitional Government for continuing to welcome people seeking refuge from the Democratic Republic of Congo, committing to stand in solidarity.
‘UNHCR praises the Transitional Government of National Unity for the inclusion of refugees, asylum seekers and other persons of concern in the National COVID-19 Preparedness and Response Plan’, said Adan Ilmi, UNHCR Representative in South Sudan.
The official added that ‘we support the government and stand together in solidarity during these difficult times’.
The agency commended that the young country is observing international protection.
Nearly 250 people from DR Congo have crossed into rural areas of the Western Equatoria State over the last week; many are vulnerable women and children.
UNHCR, in close collaboration with South Sudan’s Ministry of Interior through its Commission for Refugee Affairs continues to monitor their situation and address their needs in coordination with partners.
The agency said with partners, they are on the ground to support the new arrivals with food, water, sanitation, health services and COVID19 preventive measures.
UNHCR vowed that it has continuous access to the population and will continue to monitor and respond to their needs.