By Manas James Okony
Civil society calls for diplomatic efforts to facilitate safe return of thousands of South Sudanese still stranded in Sudan as the conflict there continues.
Citizens’ Call for Emergency Evacuation, a youth-led voluntary organization, has spearhead amplify the plight of citizens trapped in Sudan war zone.
Heavy violent clashes engulfed Khartoum in April 19th 2023 between Sudan Armed Forces (SAF) and a paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF), which eventually spread throughout the country. This fighting has plunged Sudan into chaos, exacerbating a precarious humanitarian situation that has resulted in widespread displacement.
South Sudan, a country that gained independence from Sudan in 2011, shares a long and complex history with its northern neighbor. The two nations have experienced their share of turmoil, with South Sudan emerging from its own civil war that lasted from 2013 to 2018.
Today, South Sudan is grappling with numerous challenges, including poverty, insecurity, and political instability, all of which have been intensified by the influx of over 1 million refugees fleeing from the ongoing violence in Sudan.
According to the United Nations, this massive exodus reflects the gravity of the humanitarian crisis currently unfolding in the region.
As foreign governments rushed to evacuate their citizens from Sudan during the start of the war, the Citizens’ Call for Emergency Evacuation stepped up to address the urgent needs of South Sudanese individuals stranded amid the violence.
Team leader, Akoc Manhiem reported that the group has successfully facilitated the return of over 10,500 South Sudanese since the conflict began.
Akoc emphasized that the actions were motivated by a profound love for their country and a sense of civic responsibility.
“When the war in Sudan erupted, many countries began evacuating their citizens. As citizens, we cannot wait for the government; we must rise to the occasion and assist our own people,” he said. “A good citizen contributes to a good government, and it is our duty to support one another during times of crisis.”
Humanitarianism drives the group’s mission. “We are young volunteers from various backgrounds, some working for different institutions. While the government has its humanitarian plan, we recognize the urgent gap we need to fill as individuals,” Akoc stated.
This grassroots initiative has garnered significant support from the community. During a fundraising event at the Dr. John Garang Mausoleum, the group raised over 100 million South Sudan pounds (approximately $100,000), enabling them to hire trucks to evacuate refugees from Khartoum to the Joda border area. From there, international agencies like the IOM and UNHCR further assist in transporting returnees to their homes across South Sudan.
Akoc also highlighted the importance of inclusivity in their efforts, stating, “We have evacuated people regardless of their ethnic backgrounds. Tribalism has no place in our mission to save lives. This collective effort has strengthened our unity as South Sudanese, demonstrating our generosity and compassion.”
Strategically located in northeastern Africa, Sudan is the continent’s third-largest country, a vital economic player in the region. South Sudan’s economy is predominantly oil-dependent, with its oil being transported through Sudan to international markets. The interdependence of these two countries underscores the importance of regional stability for the welfare of both nations.
Looking ahead, Citizens’ Call for Emergency Evacuation is committed to diversifying its activities to continue assisting those in need.
“As the conflict deepens, we recognize that our initial evacuation methods may no longer be viable. Now, we are mobilizing funds to support stranded families in Khartoum directly,” Akoc explained.
“Moreover, we aim to aid returnee families, and once the situation stabilizes, we will collaborate with the government on various emergency services, including potentially offering ambulance services to support our hospitals.”
He added, “With this difficult situation in Sudan, we still have that need to be evacuated. However, we cannot hire trucks now because it is risky. So, we urged our government to engage in diplomacy.”
In these challenging times, the group emphasizes the necessity for unity and continued support among South Sudanese citizens, as they work towards a future where they can assist their government and each other in overcoming the trials that arise.