By Yiep Joseph
Authorities in Pig County, Jonglei State, have called for urgent humanitarian assistance as cases of hunger and insecurity continue to rise.
Monykuer Lam Ayul, the Director of Information in the Commissioner’s Office, stated that many people have been displaced due to the threats posed by the White Army, leaving them without food to sustain their families.
Ayul emphasized that ongoing instability has forced over 14,000 people to flee their homes in the county, leading to a deepening humanitarian crisis.
He urged both local and international humanitarian organizations, as well as governments and stakeholders, to prioritize the plight of internally displaced persons (IDPs) in Pig County.
“The immediate needs of these individuals include access to safe shelter, clean water, food, and medical care. Your swift response is essential to mitigate their suffering and restore a sense of normalcy,” he added.
Lam pointed out that the displacement is largely due to ongoing insecurity attributed to the Sudan People’s Liberation Army in Opposition (SPLA-IO) and the White Army.
He expressed particular concern over the dire humanitarian situation in Shabnil, an area within Malakal, Upper Nile State, where thousands have sought safety.
Most of the IDPs are women and children who require specialized support, including protection, access to education, and healthcare services.
Lam further emphasized the need for targeted assistance to help displaced families access basic necessities and begin rebuilding their lives in safety and dignity.
Some IDPs have been separated from their families and are in need of psychosocial support in addition to healthcare services.
Since the beginning of this year, the Upper Nile region has experienced a fragile situation characterized by intermittent clashes involving the South Sudan People’s Defence Forces (SSPDF) and the White Army, a hostile military group operating in the area.
Jonglei and Upper Nile states have frequently been hotspots for violence, largely driven by disputes among various tribal groups and armed factions.
Suleiman Deng, the Pigi County commissioner, detailed the ongoing crisis in an interview with No. 1 Citizen Daily Newspaper.
He reported that local populations are currently seeking refuge in villages north of Malakal.
“Our civilians have fled to Obeel, Dolep Hill, and Panam around Malakal town,” he stated, highlighting the significant displacement of residents.
The escalation of hostilities has reached a critical point, with SPLA-IO forces and the White Army reportedly seizing control of substantial areas within Pig County, deepening the already dire humanitarian situation.
Commissioner Deng voiced grave concerns for the remaining residents, noting that “the enemy is already in the county, and they are camped in areas such as Dwong (Wunmaker) and Wunlith.”