Thousands are fleeing violence from Sudan into South Sudan, crossing through the Joda border. The humanitarian crisis is severe, with many individuals categorizing themselves as refugees or returnees. Organizers provide food, shelter, and medical aid, while psychological support is essential for coping with trauma. The situation is worsened by funding cuts impacting humanitarian efforts, emphasizing the need for continued assistance in this challenging environment.
At the Joda border crossing between Sudan and South Sudan, there is a continuous flow of individuals seeking refuge from violence. The border, only 100 meters wide, features welcoming flags on the Sudanese side and a sign marking the entrance to South Sudan. Many families arrive carrying their belongings, demonstrating resilience as they abandon their homes in pursuit of safety.
Hamed Attaher, a 26-year-old technology student, expresses relief upon crossing into South Sudan after a year of displacement. He shares his hope of reuniting with his aunt in Juba, highlighting the emotional impact of such long journeys for those fleeing conflict.
Currently, South Sudan confronts a dire humanitarian crisis as approximately 12.5 million people have fled their homes in Sudan amid escalating violence. Since early December, as many as 5,000 individuals have crossed into South Sudan daily, escaping dangerous clashes involving the Sudanese Armed Forces and the Rapid Support Forces.
The International Organization for Migration (IOM) designates arrivals as refugees or returnees. For many, this marks a return to a homeland previously abandoned due to the civil war that erupted in 2013. Humanitarian workers underscore the shared cultural and historical bonds between South Sudanese and Sudanese, referring to areas such as Wunthou, which straddle both nations.
UNHCR tents at the reception area offer shelter and emergency food to those seeking refuge. Medical teams coordinate care for varying health needs, taking special care of urgent cases. Recently, an ambulance transported a severely malnourished infant to a hospital for life-saving treatment.
Some individuals opt to continue their journey independently to informal settlements along the route to Renk, while transportation services organized by IOM assist others in reaching their destinations. Attaher boards one of these trucks, displaying optimism for the next leg of his journey.
In Renk County Hospital, efforts are underway to attend to the medical needs of newly arriving individuals, including newborn twins who are receiving care after being born to a displaced mother. Unfortunately, many face severe shortages of food and water in the settlements, prompting emergency responses.
Medical practitioners like Dr. Atem Deng Ajak address the needs of a diverse population, including Sudanese refugees and returnees. They strive to provide essential care, aided by emergency tents set up to accommodate war-injured patients.
Amidst the difficulties, social support systems are in place to help mothers cope with trauma. Staff in psychological support areas engage with individuals, helping them navigate the emotional toll of displacement and loss from conflict.
Challenges persist due to funding freezes affecting humanitarian efforts. Problems such as disrupted transportation services and halted psychological support are compounded by political decisions that may inhibit overall assistance in South Sudan.
In the face of adversity, local humanitarian providers remain focused on delivering care impartially and efficiently, relying on divine providence and available resources. Each individual story underscores the extraordinary resilience shown by those affected by conflict, as they navigate their path toward safety and recovery.
The situation at the Joda border crossing highlights the profound humanitarian crisis currently unfolding as thousands flee violence in Sudan for South Sudan. The resilience of displaced individuals, symbolized by their arduous journeys, bears witness to their urgent need for safety and basic necessities. Ongoing international support remains crucial to alleviate their suffering and restore hope in the region. Immediate attention is required to address the overwhelming challenges posed by displacement, healthcare, and psychological support as communities struggle to cope with the fallout of conflict.
Original Source: www.theguardian.com
