[South Sudan] Riots Break out in South Sudan, Sparking Emergency Aid

South Sudan, one of the largest refugee host countries, accommodates many refugees, particularly from neighboring Sudan, Ethiopia, and the Democratic Republic of the Congo. By the end of 2024, there are around 522,000 registered refugees in South Sudan, with over 90% coming from Sudan. The UNHCR and the South Sudanese government work together to manage refugee support and help them integrate with local communities.

Recently, a tragic incident in Sudan, where South Sudanese people were killed, sparked anti-Sudan violence in South Sudan during the week of January 15. In Juba, the capital, around 5,000 Sudanese refugees were targeted in the violence. Many sought safety by fleeing to police stations, and with the help of the UNHCR, they were temporarily relocated to the Gorom refugee settlement near Juba. These refugees remain under police protection and are unable to return home for now.

In response to this emergency, Peace Winds began supporting approximately 2,000 Sudanese refugees who sought refuge in three facilities, including a school, within the Gorom refugee settlement, focusing on the water and sanitation sector. In collaboration with UNHCR and other organizations providing assistance in different sectors, Peace Winds first installed temporary water storage tanks at the secondary school serving as an emergency shelter. As the school was still preparing to open and lacked a water supply system, water was drawn from the tanks and connected to temporary water dispensers to create access to water. Water is delivered daily by supply trucks to fill the tanks.
Due to the ongoing cholera outbreak in the region, cleaning of the facilities was carried out before refugees were admitted to the shelters. Additionally, efforts are being made to ensure proper hygiene practices, such as handwashing, within the shelters and refugee settlement. Hygiene promotion staff are actively encouraging these practices and focusing on preventive measures. Alongside these initial actions, we are currently discussing and coordinating with relevant stakeholders to determine further support measures.

Before the current emergency, the Gorom refugee settlement already hosted about 15,300 refugees from Ethiopia, Sudan, and other countries, far exceeding its capacity. Basic infrastructure and services, including water and sanitation, were already insufficient, requiring additional assistance. The number of Sudanese refugees fleeing to the settlement continues to rise. With the implementation of patrols by security forces and an emergency curfew from 6 PM to 6 AM, large-scale disturbances have decreased. However, as the number of Sudanese refugees continues to grow, it is critical to improve access to water for basic survival and dignity, as well as control the spread of infectious diseases. We pray for the swift resolution of the crisis and will continue our support efforts.

This project is funded by donations from individuals and corporations, as well as a grant from UNHCR.