An estimated 1,185 households have been displaced in Morobo County, Central Equatoria State, following clashes between South Sudan’s army (SSPDF) and opposition forces (SPLA-IO) over the past two days, local officials said on Wednesday.
Morobo County lies about 120 miles (190 km) southwest of the capital, Juba.
Arike Timothy, deputy coordinator of Morobo County’s Relief and Rehabilitation Commission (RRC), told Radio Tamazuj that 1,185 displaced households had been registered as of Wednesday afternoon.
“We started registering the displaced since the clashes began,” he said. “As of now, we have recorded 1,185 households—totaling 7,110 people, including women, children and the elderly. Some remain scattered, and the number is still rising.”
Morobo County Commissioner Data Charles said displaced families were arriving in Morobo town, fleeing areas including Panyume, Kendila, Girili and Waima.
“Residents of Panyume left two weeks ago after the SPLA-IO ordered them out,” he said. “Those arriving now are from Waimba, Kanja and Gulumbi. They should stay in Morobo town—the situation should normalize within days.”
Charles said security was under control after SSPDF intervention, with reinforcements en route. He urged displaced families to register for aid.
“People should resume normal activities, and the displaced must register at the RRC office,” he said. “Churches and schools are overcrowded. I urge church leaders to reassure people not to flee.”
Displaced civilians in Morobo town described escaping with little but their lives.
Mary Alomo, from Gulumbi, said she fled with only her children after SPLA-IO forces took her brother.
“We heard gunfire and panicked,” she said. “I grabbed my children and ran. Since arriving yesterday, we’ve received no food or blankets. We’re sleeping on cement in a school. We need help.”
Joseph Malish, a father of four, called for urgent assistance.
“I thank God we made it here safely,” he said. “The fighting continues in our village—we don’t know what will happen. Our children are hungry, with no food or medicine. We lost everything.”