South Sudan faces a significant humanitarian crisis with 12 million displaced since the outbreak of war in Sudans. Amidst the violence, reports indicate children face severe sexual abuse and refugees recount harrowing experiences of loss and trauma. Local initiatives, including mobile clinics, offer some aid, while experts stress the need for societal change to address ongoing violence.
South Sudan is currently experiencing a catastrophic displacement crisis, with approximately 12 million people forced to flee their homes since the civil war erupted in Sudan in April 2023. This situation, which represents about 30% of Sudan’s population, is escalating into what many are calling a forgotten war. Mary Atyeng, a refugee who fled from northern Sudan, describes the violence, stating, “I ran away from the north because everyone was fighting, shooting guns and even using knives to slaughter people.”
The armed conflict involves the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) and the Rapid Support Forces (RSF), exacerbated by illegal gold smuggling. Mary recounts an event where soldiers invaded her home, forcing her and her husband to flee separately to save themselves. She highlights the horrifying reality of young girls being kidnapped and family members killed for resisting such violence, saying, “That one was causing pain to me a lot, until I ran out from that place.”
UNICEF has issued warnings about the sexual abuse of children, including those as young as one year old. Refugees from South Sudan share stories of widespread violence. Amiema Mohamad, who fled Khartoum with her three children, recalls her harrowing experience: “My parents were killed during the war, my brother, my children and also my sister have passed away.”
Moussa Adem, a former English student from Darfur, described the tragedy of losing his younger brother to violence, stating, “I lost my family member, he was shot in front of us.” He detailed the destruction of his family’s business and the fear that compelled him to leave his home, saying, “We were frightened, we were very afraid.”
In the midst of this crisis, five mobile clinics operated by Concern Worldwide offer some relief to the affected populations. Mary, who arrived at the border heavily pregnant, received care from midwife Rebecca Dut Chan. Public health expert Emillia Mutya observed that the persistent instability leads to a cycle of retaliation, where disputes often escalate into violence rather than being resolved peacefully.
Social worker Robert Akol Garang mentioned the alarming frequency of gender-based violence cases, noting, “Sometimes I have 15 or 20 GBV survivors per day to see.” He emphasized the trauma experienced by these women, many of whom have survived forced marriages and sexual violence. Despite overwhelming challenges, he believes societal transformation is possible, stating, “This is something that can change.”
The ongoing conflict in South Sudan has led to severe human rights violations, particularly affecting children and women. With millions displaced and living in precarious conditions, the situation is dire and warrants urgent global attention. Refugees like Mary, Amiema, and Moussa highlight the personal toll of the violence, reflecting a broader humanitarian crisis that remains largely overlooked. Despite the challenges, humanitarian efforts are underway, offering some hope for change in this troubled region.
Original Source: www.irishexaminer.com
