Arop Jonchol
Malakal – Al-Wadi Newspaper
Amid growing security tensions in Upper Nile State, a team from the United Nations Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS), comprising both civilian and uniformed peacekeepers based in Malakal, conducted a field visit to the remote area of Wad Dakona. The visit aimed to assess the security situation and strengthen dialogue with local authorities on conflict prevention strategies.
The mission focused on identifying the pressing challenges faced by local communities, particularly in light of the increasing influx of returnees and refugees fleeing the ongoing conflict in neighboring Sudan. These individuals are crossing the border into South Sudan daily in search of safety and stability.
In this context, Jalau Ongal, Coordinator of the Relief and Rehabilitation Commission, stated: “Since last year, we have registered over 50,000 returnees. The government has allocated land for their resettlement, but they are facing serious challenges, including a lack of food and limited access to basic healthcare services.”
This visit is part of UNMISS efforts to promote stability in border areas and enhance coordination between local authorities and international partners to ensure an effective humanitarian response and prevent potential conflicts triggered by growing population pressures and limited resources.
