Citizens at Malakal PoC report water shortage

Displaced people collect water in a water point at the PoC site. Photo: Albert Gonzalez Farran/MSF

Several internally displaced persons (IDPs) who are living in the UN base in Malakal town report a shortage of drinking water.

Several internally displaced persons (IDPs) who are living in the UN base in Malakal town report a shortage of drinking water.

A number of citizens told Radio Tamazuj on Tuesday that for the last six days the internally displaced families have been experiencing a severe water shortage.

Gasim Andrew, a community activist in the camp, said they are also suffering because of accumulated rainwater. He added that children and the elderly are suffering from poor conditions and lack of shelters to protect them.

Rita Akwoc, a member of women’s group in the camp, appealed to organizations to intervene in the situation and help children and the elderly by providing tarpaulins.

She expressed fears that continued rainfall could cause diseases.

Akwoc called on humanitarian organizations to expedite the provision of water and shelter before the situation deteriorates further.

The total of number of civilians seeking safety in the UN camp in Malakal is 32,608, according to figures provided by the UN mission in South Sudan.