Thousands of stranded South Sudanese returnees in Kosti are suffering from poor living conditions with a serious lack of food and clean drinking water.

Witnesses said the lack of sanitation is also spreading diseases.

Some also complained of 'signs of hatred' from local authorities in White Nile state that are preventing them from leaving the port town.

They said they are stuck at Kosti without income and are worried at the deteriorating situation particularly for mothers and children.

They added that they had loaded their luggage on to a barge that was supposed to take them to South Sudan, but after weeks the barge did not move.

The returnees also said they have been forced to sell some of their belongings at the market to allow them to buy food.