In a pressing move reflecting the gravity of the refugee situation in South Sudan, the UN High Commissioner for Refugees, Filippo Grandi, has made an urgent appeal for $1 billion in financial aid. This call to action is aimed at supporting the overwhelming number of Sudanese refugees and returnees in the region.
Since the onset of conflict in mid-April, South Sudan has become a refuge for over 237,700 individuals. These refugees, as reported by the Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs, have primarily entered through key border points in the Upper Nile and Northern Bahr El-Ghazal States.
During his pivotal visit to South Sudan, Grandi interacted with refugees and assessed their immediate needs. He emphasized that of the total appeal, $365 million is designated for South Sudan to manage the burgeoning numbers of returnees and Sudanese refugees.
Addressing a press conference in Juba, Grandi highlighted the dire need for international support, stating, “We are appealing for double that figure for a billion dollars from the beginning until the end of December.” The funds are crucial to ensure refugees have access to basic necessities.
Grandi’s visit also included discussions with South Sudan’s President, Salva Kiir, focusing on strategies to support refugees and mobilize resources effectively.
